CITY OF CANTERBURY
Annual Report
2011-12
01. Table of contents Overview
Our Vision.................................................................................... 4 Foreword....................................................................................... 6 Councillors................................................................................... 8 Council Wards.............................................................................. 9 Our Mission................................................................................ 10 Our Values.................................................................................. 11 Leadership Team........................................................................ 12 Organisational Structure.......................................................... 13 Integrated Planning................................................................... 14 Integrated Planning Framework............................................. 16 Strategic Direction..................................................................... 17
Attractive City
Highlights.................................................................................... 20 Opportunities For Local Business........................................... 22 Report On The Condition Of Public Works......................... 29 Stormwater Management Program........................................ 31 Special Rate Variation............................................................... 32 Infrastructure Renewal Levy.................................................... 32 Bushfire Hazard Reduction...................................................... 35 Animal Control & Management............................................. 36 Priority Projects......................................................................... 38 Principal Activities.................................................................... 39
Stronger Community
Highlights.................................................................................... 44 Community & Recreation........................................................ 47 Aboriginal Services.................................................................... 50 School Based Aboriginal Awareness Program ..................... 50 Community Information Service ........................................... 51 Older People............................................................................... 57 Community Safety..................................................................... 59 Recreation................................................................................... 62 Celebrating Our Diversity ....................................................... 64 Library Services ......................................................................... 66 Children’s Services .................................................................... 69 Community Grants................................................................... 71 Priority Projects......................................................................... 73 Principal Activities.................................................................... 74
Sustainable Environment
Highlights.................................................................................... 82 Priority Projects......................................................................... 92 Principal Activities.................................................................... 93
Strategic Leadership
End Of Term Report................................................................. 98 Other Rates And Charges Written Off.................................103 Councillor Fees, Expenses And Facilities............................105 Priority Projects.......................................................................118 Principal Activities..................................................................119
Improving Organisation
Highlights..................................................................................126 Priority Projects.......................................................................129 Principal Activities..................................................................130
Appendix 1 - Financials
General Purpose Financial Statements................................136 Special Purpose Financial Statements..................................205 Special Schedules.....................................................................216
03. OUR VISION
Attractive city • Good looking infrastructure • Transport alternatives that work • Prosperous local economy
Stronger community • Safety and health • Access to responsive service • Celebration of diversity
Healthy environment • Sustainable urban development • Responsible use of resources • Healthy natural environment
Strategic leadership • Healthy finances • Engaged community • Effective governance
Improving organisation • Efficient services • Responsible employer • Well-maintained equipment
06. Foreword
We are delighted to present our 2011-12 Annual Report which highlights work we are conducting to achieve real improvements in the quality of life for people living and working in the City of Canterbury. We have continued to deliver on community expectations and priorities by investing in our infrastructure to build and maintain an attractive city, whilst strengthening our city with tailored services, programs and projects that have contributed to community harmony, vibrant town centres and a prosperous local economy for business growth and employment, and a healthy environment for people to enjoy for many years to come.
Our Town Centres Improvement Project has been an enormous success in delivering quality public environments for our community and local business, and the success of the program has been achieved with positive input from the Economic Development Committee and local Chambers of Commerce. The main objectives of this program are to provide beautiful streetscapes, a safe and attractive business environment and to foster vibrant social hubs. This has been achieved by installing new pavers, street furniture, landscaping, and footpath widening where possible to provide opportunities for outdoor dining and other business activities. In 2011-12 we commenced implementing the Anzac Mall Place Management Strategy. The Strategy is an important first step in revitalising and re-energising the Mall, increasing its economic viability and improving its contribution to the Campsie Town Centre as a public space. This area has the potential to be a vibrant, colourful outdoor marketplace that hosts great restaurants and brings people from all over Sydney to our City. The Strategy makes recommendations that aim to transform the Mall into a destination showcasing the rich diversity of the City and bring new life, job opportunities and investment to our area. We also provided input to the Department of Housing’s preliminary plans for a new housing development in North Riverwood which will include a range of community facilities and a new library. Our Infrastructure Renewal Program continues to be instrumental in accelerating works on local roads, footpaths and town centres. In addition to this program, we have completed improvements to infrastructure, specifically: work on Belmore Sports Ground, construction of two mini soccer fields at Ewen Park, reconstruction of concrete slab roads, relocation of the basketball court at Tasker Park, resurfacing of turf in local parks and cricket wickets, and installation of shade structures over play equipment at various locations. The reconstruction of Peter Moore Field commenced and is still in progress. A healthy environment is of great importance to our community and Council. Throughout the year, we collaborated with other local councils to establish the Cooks River Alliance. We have campaigned for the introduction of Container Deposit Legislation to minimise and prevent the surge of plastic bottle waste which ends up polluting our waterways. We continued our efforts to restore the health of the Cooks River and its tributaries with a focus on biodiversity, sustainability and the natural environment. We installed a bioretention basin at Johnston St, Earlwood, to filter stormwater entering Wolli Creek. To further engage the support of our community on these initiatives we launched the Smart Biz program and a new sustainable business category was successfully included in the Small Business Awards held in 2011, to recognise the positive work done by local business to reduce their environmental
Cr Brian Robson Mayor
impacts. We also promoted the use of reusable or recyclable packaging and containers, biodegradable plates, bowls, paper cups & cutlery at our festivals and events to minimise waste sent to landfill. We also installed solar power for Earlwood Seniors Citizens Centre and Lakemba Library, and rainwater tanks at five senior citizens centres and community buildings. The new waste collection contract we commenced this year with Transpacific Cleanaway, will also provide environmental benefits with environmentally friendly trucks which produce less emissions and noise. The introduction of this new service was complemented with a promotional and education campaign for people to Waste Less, Recycle Right, Make the Future Bright. Keeping pace with innovations in technology and communications to ensure our services remain relevant and user-friendly is a focus for Council. This year we launched a library blog as part of National Year of Reading and wireless internet access is now available at all our branch libraries. We continue to use Facebook, Twitter, eNewsletters, website, online forms, esurveys and search engine optimization to engage our community in consultation with services and facilities, and are in the final stages of developing a smartphone app to be available in 2012. Our Community Strategic Plan has been instrumental in identifying priority programs to meet our Access and Equity commitments, as well as anticipating emerging issues facing residents, businesses and community groups within our City, particularly in relation to community development. To address the changing face and demographics of the City of Canterbury, we launched our Ageing Strategy which meets the future hopes, dreams, values and needs of older people. In implementing our Ageing Strategy we are aiming to ensure that growing older in the City of Canterbury remains a positive experience for residents, now and in the future. Key priority issues identified include: Accessible Transport and Pedestrian Access; Community and Cultural facilities; Cultural, Religious and Social Diversity in our Community; Access to Community and Health Services; Accessible Low Rise and Low Density Housing; Parks and Open Space. We also established the Emerging Communities Resource Centre which was opened on 22 March 2012 to coincide with National Harmony Day, and partnered with Salvos Legal Humanitarian to deliver legal advice and information to local residents in our City. Operating from Lakemba Senior Citizens Centre, Salvos Legal Humanitarian with the City of Canterbury began offering free legal information and advice to residents on 16 August 2011. We continued to work with community leaders to discuss the issues of diversity and social inclusion faced by small and emerging communities. We supported local parents through our ‘Parental Engagement Initiative’ at Punchbowl Boys High School, and we participated in the Social Work in Schools
Jim Montague PSM General Manager
project that involved eight social work students (two blocks of four) exploring the strengths within school communities and endeavouring to create links with schools, services and communities to address learning barriers that children and young people may face. Our newest community asset, the Morris Iemma Indoor Sports Centre, has performed extremely well in its first year of operation and our partnership with the YMCA continues to deliver many outcomes across a range of areas for Council. The YMCA’s ability to adapt to the needs of the community with an inclusive approach for community and particularly families is a valued asset in this partnership. Improving our organisation remains a focus for us each year. In October 2011, the City of Canterbury had the pleasure of hosting the Local Government Corporate Leadership Cup. The two-day event saw three metropolitan councils and their country sister-city councils compete in nine teams to address a range of real world local government leadership and business challenges. The Corporate Leadership Cup was a huge success for the City of Canterbury as our two teams finished in first and second place in the overall standings. Positive feedback and comments were also received from participants regarding their sense of achievement and personal growth; increased confidence in their problem solving, time management and project management skills; a greater understanding of the role of a council and its functions; and a broader knowledge of the challenges facing local government today. A Service Recognition Program was developed in consultation with our Joint Consultative Committee to formally recognise the achievement of employee service milestones. The implementation of the program took effect from 1 January 2012 and aims to acknowledge the benefits gained through the valued service of our employees, create a greater sense of employee engagement and loyalty, and attract and retain employees who are aligned with our culture and values. This is only a snapshot of the initiatives we have been undertaking this year to make our City a more attractive, healthy, safe, vibrant and prosperous place to live and work.
Cr Brian Robson Mayor
Jim Montague PSM General Manager
07. Councillors
central ward
west ward
east ward
Belfield Belmore Campsie Lakemba
Beverly Hills Kingsgrove Narwee Punchbowl Roselands Riverwood Wiley Park
Ashbury Canterbury Clemton Park Croydon Park Earlwood Hurlstone Park
Mark Adler
Michael Hawatt
Carlo Favorito Retired 31 Oct 2011
Fadwa Kebbe
Karl Saleh
Bill Kritharis Deputy Mayor
Ken Nam
Brian Robson Mayor - 1 Nov 2011
Linda Eisler
Cr Brian Robson Mayor
Councillors are elected from each ward to represent the people of the City. The Mayor, Brian Robson represents all residents in the City of Canterbury. These were our Councillors during 2011-12.
Cr Robert Furolo Mayor - Retired 31 Oct 2011
08. Council Wards oad iver R ges R Geor Croydon Park
Be am ish Street
Belfield
Central Ward
Campsie
Belmore Lakemba Wiley Park
ad s Ro rge eo gG Kin
Punchbowl
West Ward Riverwood
Ashbury
Hurlstone Park Canterbury
East Ward
oad ry R rbu e t n Ca
Earlwood Clemton Park
Kingsgrove
Roselands
M5 Motorway
Beverly Hills
Narwee
Located only 17 kilometres south-west of the CBD, the City of Canterbury is a treasure chest full of exotic foods, unique shops and diverse cultures. Our Campsie Food Festival and Haldon Street Festival in Lakemba, highlight the rich diversity of area and promote Respect, Unity and Peace.
We are proud of our waterways, and have built a cycleway along the Cooks River for people to discover the natural beauty of our City. The Cooks River passes through our city to the north, with Wolli Creek and Salt Pan Creek forming natural boundaries to the south and west. In addition to having a large range of recreation and leisure facilities, we cater for the diverse range of people and cultures which make up our community, with dedicated services for the aged, children and youth. We also offer a wide range of multicultural services and facilities for our culturally diverse community, including: •
Amphitheatre - at Wiley Park
•
Fitness and Aquatic Centres - Roselands and Tasker Park at Canterbury
•
Velodrome - Undercliffe
•
Libraries - Campsie, Earlwood, Lakemba and Riverwood
•
Belmore Youth Resource Centre
•
Senior Citizens Centres - Ashbury, Belmore, Earlwood, Lakemba, and Riverwood
•
Specialist Child Care including: Family Day Care, Occasional Care, Vacation Care and After School Care
•
Long Day Care Centres - Earlwood Children’s Centre, Hurlstone Park Children’s Centre, Lakemba Children’s Centre and Urunga Parade Children’s Centre at Punchbowl
•
Community Centres - Canterbury City Community Centre, Earlwood Caring Community Centre, Punchbowl Multipurpose Community Centre, Riverwood Community Centre and The Carrington Centre.
09. Our Mission
We are responsible to council and our community through the City Strategic Plan to achieve real improvements in the quality of life for people living and working in the City of Canterbury.
10. Our Values
Values are beliefs we have that provide a basis for choices we make. They ultimately determine the quality of our lives. We respect and value people We don’t tolerate discrimination, bullying or harassment We accept responsibility for our actions We welcome diversity We act with integrity We encourage innovative contributions We seek to learn and continually improve We recognise and celebrate success We operate fairly and transparently We make all decisions based on merit We manage risk responsibly
11. Leadership Team
Jim Montague PSM General Manager
Andy Sammut Director Corporate Services
Marcelo Occhiuzzi Director City Planning
Wayne Cooper Director City Works
12. Organisational Structure
Council General Manager Corporate Communications & Events
City Works
Corporate Services
- Asset Planning & Investigations
- Business Operations
- Design & Traffic - Operations - Waste & Cleaning
- Community Services - Governance & Administration - Customer Service & Records - Children’s Services - Libraries - Economic Development - Corporate Projects
City Planning - Development Assessment - Environmental Compliance - Environmental Policy
- Corporate Strategy - Finance & Administration - Human Resources
11. Integrated Planning
Our Integrated Planning Framework comprises a number of documents that reflect the Canterbury community’s priorities and guide long term action. These are:
The Community Strategic Plan identifies the long-term aspirations our communities have for life and work in Canterbury City. It describes the City’s future through five themes, each with Long Term Goals and Community Outcomes, which cover the broad range of topics that are important for our City and our communities. Alongside the Community Outcomes are Strategies – which Council, partner organisations and individuals can use to work towards achieving the Community Outcomes, and Trend Indicators – things that can be monitored to determine if progress toward the Community Outcomes is being made. The End of Term Report reports on the implementation and effectiveness of the Community Strategic Plan. The Council Delivery Plan is the strategic document which guides the action of Council for the next four years. It outlines the Activities – services, initiatives and infrastructure programs – that Council intends to undertake, and the Resources (people and money) needed to do so. The Council Delivery Plan document is structured around Community Outcomes, showing those Activities that are part of Council Strategies working towards achieving a Community Outcome. The Council Function that is responsible for undertaking the Activity and Council Performance Indicators are also shown.
The Council Operating Plan supports the Council Delivery Plan by providing specific information on the Activities that Council will undertake and measures of performance. In particular the details of Council Strategies (and associated Strategy Indicators), Services (and associated Output Estimates and Service Standards), and Initiatives to be delivered by each Function, Infrastructure Projects to be delivered, and the assignment of responsibility for implementation and reporting for these items, are shown. The Operating Plan also includes the details of the next year’s budget. The Resource Strategy outlines Council’s capacity to manage assets and deliver services over the next ten years. The Resource Strategy includes three key elements – an Asset Management Plan describing infrastructure policies and requirements, a Workforce Plan describing staff policies and requirements, and a Long Term Financial Plan, which sets policy directions for rates, borrowing, investments, service levels and additional infrastructure.
The Annual Report outlines Council’s achievements in implementing its Delivery Program and Operational Plan and includes information on activities that have been completed and results of performance indicators. Every four years, in the year of the ordinary election the Annual Report also includes an outline of achievements in implementing the Community Strategic Plan.
Integrated Planning FRAMEWORK Council Resource Strategy 10 Years
Resource Strategy
Asset Management Plan
Community Engagement Framework & Program
Community Strategic Plan
IMAGINECANTERBURY C O M M U N I T Y
E N G A G E M E N T
Council Annual Report Every Year
www.canterbury.nsw.gov.au
Canterbury City Council has recently prepared a new policy and framework which supports community engagement to respond to your needs and provide appropriate services and facilities.
Community Engagement Framework & Management Plan
One of the most important jobs of our Council is to set the strategic direction which guides our work to improve life in our City. Council works hard to continually improve the range and quality of our services and an important part of doing this is listening to our residents. Although we already engage well with our community across a range of issues and projects, we are committed to further improving our approach to community engagement. The key benefit of understanding the community’s views is the ability to provide services, projects and programs that respond to community needs, wants and aspirations. Over the coming months, we’ll be embarking on a comprehensive community consultation program, asking people what they think of the City of Canterbury - what they want it to be and how we can make it better.
IMAGINE CANTERBURY
As part of this process we will be conducting a range of surveys and public forums to ask people their opinions. Surveys will be carried out over the phone and on our website and we’ll be setting up a number of stalls at community events, shopping centres and local sporting fields, where you’ll be given the opportunity to have your say. Your feedback, ideas and suggestions will assist in preparing the City Plan, Budget, Projects and Priorities which council will use to make important decisions about the City’s future. As part of our commitment to listening to our community, we’ll be seeking your continued participation every year. Your views are very important. I encourage residents to have their say and help shape the future of our City.
Cr Robert Furolo MP Mayor
City of Canterbury
Annual Report 2009-10
Jim Montague PSM General Manager
Themes Community Outcomes
Trend Indicators
Community Strategic Plan
10+ Years
Strategies
Council Delivery Plan
Council Activities Resources Delivery Plan
Performance Indicators
4 Years Workforce Plan
Long Term Financial Plan
Council Operating Plan 1 Year
Services Initiatives Operating Plan
Infrastructure Projects
Service & Initiative Indicators
17. STRATEGIC DIRECTION
Through our engagement program, our community told us what they want for the future of the City of Canterbury. This is reflected in the words below, and our Community Strategic Plan.
ATTRACTIVE CITY
20. HIGHLIGHTS
An attractive City which is clean, well maintained, modern, accessible, with good lighting, footpaths and provision of parking will greatly enhance neighbourhoods and boost community pride is a key priority arising from our Community Strategic Plan. Encouraging local industry and jobs, addressing traffic congestion, and creating vibrant town centres is also of importance to stimulate growth and prosperity for the City, ensuring that residents stay local – shop local, work local and live local. To deliver on this priority, we have been greening our City with trees, parks and street gardens, ensuring our urban developments are attractive, use sustainable building practices and foster community interaction and connectedness to continue to build a vibrant, dynamic, safe and supportive community. Our strategic plan for our City is to have mixed development, not over development that caters for the employment, housing, shopping, recreation, leisure, social and entertainment needs of children, adults and elders within our community.
This year we continued works on the upgrade to Ewen Park and Peter Moore Field while the rehabilitation of Rotary Park is almost complete. We also made great progress with our Infrastructure Renewal Program which has been successful in creating more attractive streetscapes across our City, particularly in our town centres. Works commenced to upgrade Earlwood town centre through this program, which included the installation of new footpath paving and new street surfacing. Implementation of the Anzac Mall Place Management Strategy also began this year which will see improved amenities and will bring added vibrancy and commercial vitality to Campsie and the mall. Work continued to replace concrete roads slabs specifically on Kingsgrove Road roads surrounding Belmore shopping centre. Whilst our bus shelter and courtesy seat installation program across the City complemented improvements to local public transport facilities. As Council prides itself on being dedicated to the environment we continued improving our local bio-diversity with a focus on the Cooks River and its tributaries, Cup and Saucer Creek and Wolli Creek. An economically prosperous, attractive and functional city is one of Council’s highest priorities, and the key to achieving this is improving our roads, footpaths and town centres. Each year Council manages infrastructure assets valued at around $1 billion on behalf of the community, including 325 km of local roads and an extensive network of footpaths and cycle ways, ensuring they are safe and serving their purpose. With the introduction of our Infrastructure Renewal Program in 2005, we have committed $45 million over 15 years to accelerate works on roads, footpaths, drains and town centres. As part of this program, Council invested over $3 million this financial year towards renewing our City’s Infrastructure. We also allocated over $1.3 million towards resealing 31 of our roads, including important arteries such as Burwood Road and Homer Street, and $710,000 towards major road works such as rehabilitating Burwood Road’s ageing concrete surface. To create vibrant town centres that stimulate growth and prosperity in our City, we continued improvements to footpaths and streetscapes at Belfield, Belmore and Earlwood Town Centres. In 2011-12 work was completed on the $8.5 million redevelopment of Belmore Sports Ground. With nearly $5 million from the Federal Government, more than $2.5
Attractive City
Peter Moore Field, Belmore
million from the State government and $1 million from the Bulldogs and Council, Belmore Sports Ground has been redevelopment to provide state-of-the art training and office facilities. New amenities include a new gymnasium with an altitude chamber and upgrades to the existing change rooms, functions rooms and corporate boxes. Neighbouring Peter Moore Field is also undergoing improvements, including upgrade and extensions of the change rooms and amenities, construction of disable access toilet and canteen, replacement and repairs to the perimeter fencing, floodlight improvements, playing field renovations, drainage works and irrigation. Belmore Sports Ground is a major asset for the City of Canterbury and these upgrades ensure that this iconic sporting ground and community facility remains an important public asset for future generations. The works to Peter Moore Field, will provide two top quality playing fields for our two major codes: rugby league and soccer. In March 2011, we officially opened our most significant sporting facility – the $9 million Morris Iemma Indoor Sports Centre in Riverwood. Run by the YMCA, the centre reflects our ongoing commitment to improving the quality and range of community infrastructure. This year marked the first anniversary of the Morris Iemma Indoor Sports Centre opening and it continues to thrive and prosper, offering a wide range of facilities and programs to an increasing membership. Living sustainably and preserving the health of our environment is an important legacy that as a community we safeguard for future generations. That’s why - through a variety of initiatives - Council is taking the lead, and inspiring the community to embrace a sustainable future. This year, Council constructed a new stormwater harvesting system for use in irrigation at Blick and Campbell Oval at Canterbury Park. By capturing water directly, we will significantly reduce our reliance on drinking water for watering parks and playing fields. We also installed a gross pollutant trap at the end of Beamish Street, Campsie to capture and collect rubbish, leaf litter and sediment, which would otherwise have entered our important waterways. The installation of rainwater tanks and
solar panels on several community buildings, has promoted the use of clean renewable energy sources, and reduced our reliance on fossilised fuels and our carbon footprint. Residents also benefit from Council’s ongoing active role in protecting and enhancing biodiversity through a number of programs including the Turella Creek Restoration Project and the Canterbury Fauna Study. Our ongoing commitment towards embracing a sustainable future is just one of the ways we are making the City of Canterbury an attractive city for to live and work for generations to come. An attractive city is also a safe city particularly on local roads and around school zones all drivers should take extra care. To promote road safety around school zones, we have an extensive education and compliance program to ensure that as a community it is all our responsibility to ensure that children are safe, to be responsible and obey road rules which are in force during school hours. We work with schools, parents and drivers to reinforce messages of protecting children when picking them up and dropping them off by holding their hands and not parking illegally, or make illegal U-turns across double unbroken lines either side of a pedestrian crossing. During the last school term of 2011, Council’s Rangers and Community Patrol Officers carried out 133 School Safety Patrols at the 35 schools in our area and they recorded 273 parking offences. We also conducted a ‘Drive Longer, Drive Safely Workshop’ for seniors in our community to help them refresh their driving skills. With changes to road rules and our desire for local seniors to stay mobile for as long as possible, the refresher workshop was designed to inform older drivers of the latest changes to the road rules, and improve their thinking, driving skills and knowledge of road and pedestrian safety. These workshops are an important initiative in building and maintaining safety awareness among our older road users and help ensure they remain active and independent for as long as possible.
21
22 Annual Report 2011-12
20.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCAL BUSINESS
One of the priorities of our Council is supporting and encouraging local businesses. Council supports these businesses in a number of ways, by improving and upgrading our town centres, working with local businesses and Chambers of Commerce on policy and planning initiatives, workshops and seminars.
One of Council’s most important roles is to set the longterm strategic direction for economic development and employment in our City. To help us work out the best way forward, we developed Towards 2032 – Canterbury Economic Development and Employment Strategy. This Strategy outlines a range of actions to promote economic development and employment generation across our City. It surveyed our current employment lands, with a particular focus on our industrial precincts, looking at ways to preserve these lands, to attract new businesses to our area and to encourage expansion in our existing businesses. The Strategy recommended planning controls to encourage employment; considered future demand within our City based on population growth and trends; identified specific industries most suitable to our area and recommended strategies to attract these industries. This 20 year plan has prepared us to meet the challenges of providing a strong local economy and jobs for local residents. It builds on our strengths, with home-based businesses, promoted skill development, dynamic town centres, and proximity to transport infrastructure – M5, Sydney airport and freight rail lines. In the future it will encourage innovation and investment, support the provision of business support services and enhance functionality of industrial estates, whilst managing the connectivity to residential lands. Implementation of the Strategy, which began in 2009-10, continued in 2010-11 with initiatives such as the Anzac Mall Place Management Strategy, better business engagement, and the commencement of planning for industrial precinct improvements.
Friendly’s Chemist, Belmore
Anzac Mall, Campsie
Anzac Mall Place Management Strategy In 2011-12 we commenced implementing the Anzac Mall Place Management Strategy. The Strategy is an important first step in revitalising and re-energising the Mall, increasing its economic viability and improving its contribution to the Campsie town centre as a public space. This area has the potential to be a vibrant colourful outdoor market place that hosts great restaurants and brings people from all over Sydney to our City. The Strategy makes recommendations that aim to transform the Mall into a destination that will showcase the rich diversity of the City and bring new life, job opportunities and investment in our area. Some of these include: •
opening the Mall one way with a central roadway and footpath dining areas.
•
holding additional events in the Mall or AnzacPark such as an open air cinema to maximise community benefit and economic stimulus.
•
reviewing charges for outdoor dining on public footpath spaces to encourage appropriate dining facilities.
•
implementing improved standards, particularly for the quality and appearance of street furniture.
•
reviewing council policies in order to encourage development of an appropriate type in Anzac Mall, in particular residential new development within walking distance of the railway station.
From December 2011 to March 2012 we supported a trial of the Campsie Saturday Market, a weekly market with a variety of food stalls, variety of food, fashion and gadgets as well as entertainment including a jumping castle, face painters, clowns and street performers. As part of the trial we conducted a survey of community attitudes to this and the Campsie Rotary Market which is held in Anzac Mall each week on Sundays. There was strong support for the markets to continue, and for them to be bigger, with more stalls, a greater variety of both food and goods, and to be more family friendly with more entertainment. Unfortunately the Campsie Saturday Market did not continue beyond the trial. The Campsie Rotary (Sunday) Market does will continue, however. We will also continue to consider future proposals for markets in Anzac Mall in support of the Anzac Mall Place Management Strategy. Also during the year we commenced negotiations with several developers on Voluntary Planning Agreements to provide funding for the project to reopen the Mall. The Agreements were publicly exhibited in April 2012, and the Agreements are now almost finalised.
24 Annual Report 2011-12
Engaging Businesses In 2012-13 we will expand our economic modelling tool into an online economic profile www.economicprofile.com.au/canterbury. This has made information on the Canterbury economy publicly available and easily accessible for businesses, potential investors, prospective new residents, researchers, students and media organisations. The profile provides valuable insights into Canterbury’s workforce, highlights opportunities for import replacement and captures the value of tourism for the local economy. The information can support more effective planning, strategy development and promotion of business activity and job creation in the Canterbury area. Through our partnership with the Australian Business Register we have continued to use ABN data to support more effective and thorough communications with our business community. We have participated in the South West Sydney Local Employment Coordinator Advisory Committee, providing input to regional employment initiatives. We have also commenced negotiations with South West Sydney Institute of TAFE to establish a partnership that will see a broader range of vocational education opportunities provided to our local workforce.
Community information signs A highlight of the year was the installation of a new Community information sign in Hurlstone Park Town Centre. After much investigation of options, including consideration by the Economic Development committee, a decision was made to choose a sign that aligned with the new welcome signs. The sign is designed to provide local information, and council information. Posting of local information will be coordinated by the chamber of commerce. The sign is the first of a number that will be installed in town centres across the city over the next four years, one per year. A decision on the location of the next sign is yet to be made, but several options are currently being investigated.
Information Board, Hurlstone Park
Town Centre Improvement Program Over the past seven years we have been undertaking a Town Centres Improvement Program across our 11 Town Centres. The main objectives of this program are to provide beautiful streetscapes, a safe and attractive business environment and to foster vibrant social hubs. This has been achieved by installing new pavers - carefully selected to provide an attractive and safe footways to minimise any risks of falls or slips; street furniture – such as street benches and litter bins are placed in the Town Centres providing a modern and uniform look though out the City; landscaping – provide well maintained and manageable landscapes in our Town Centres for a beautiful streetscape; footpaths – widening of footpath where possible to provide opportunities for outdoor dining and use by business activities on the footway where appropriate. The 2011-12 financial year saw the conclusion of upgrade works in Belmore, Belfield Town Centres and Punchbowl. Positive feedback from local business operators, Chambers of Commerce and the public has also been received in all areas where the work has been completed. Major town centre improvement works have now commenced in Earlwood Town Centre and are planned over the next few years. The Town Centres Improvement Project has been an enormous success in delivering quality public environments for our community and local business and the success of the program has been achieved with positive input from the Economic Development Committee and local Chambers.
26 Annual Report 2011-12
Strategic Planning
Open Space
One of the important roles Council plays in our City is in relation to planning and development of our town centres, neighbourhoods and industrial areas. We map out how we will grow as a City, where housing should be concentrated how to make full use of transport networks, where opportunities exist for economic development close to infrastructure and the M5, as well as mixed uses – residential and retail, in our town centres.
The Wolli Creek Regional Park is now more than 85% complete, this year, we continued to lobby the State Government to enable the Regional Park to be protected by an Act of Parliament for future generations and rule out any attempts to use part of the Park for proposed extensions to the M5 Motorway.
The NSW Department of Planning & Infrastructure requires all NSW Councils to prepare new Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) and Development Control Plans (DCPs) in accordance with their State-wide LEP template. Work on this project continued during 2011-12 and is expected to be finalised by the end of 2012. The new LEP and DCP will incorporate a number of recently completed strategic projects such as the Town Centres DCP and a review of residential development controls. The final LEP will set the ground rules for the future of our City, where we will develop new residential spaces and where our new parks will be located. It will help Council make sure places that need protecting are protected and decisions about land use are done with the best interests of the community in mind. As a result of Council’s hard work over the years, current land usage and zoning won’t change significantly. Most changes will simply transfer existing zones to equivalent zones under the State Government’s new standard LEP. However, there will be some changes in and around our town centres and along some sections of Canterbury Road. In 2006 Council proposed a scheme to revitalise the Canterbury Town Centre and Riverfront Precinct and transform it into a modern, vibrant mix of shops, cafes, commercial and residential developments. These planning instruments which provide the framework for Canterbury Town Centre redevelopment were adopted in 2009 and came into effect in 2010. We received a positive response from residents who told us they supported the plan which will provide new shops, restaurants, cafes and upgraded public open spaces which will take advantage of the river foreshore. Those concepts, and our vision for the future of Canterbury Town Centre, are one step closer to being realised with a number of development applications currently being assessed. They will transform the industrial area on the riverside to residential developments, with some mixed uses. These residential developments capitalise on the proximity of Canterbury Train Station and interchange to provide easy and accessible public transport options for residents. The additional residential housing will have flow on benefits to the town centre and local businesses and will encourage more local investment in our City. The Planning and Development section of Council’s website (www.canterbury.nsw.gov.au/building) includes information on heritage in the City of Canterbury and the development application process, along with other useful information to help people planning work to a heritage item.
We are in the process of conducting an audit for our Strategic Recreation Plan. It includes: •
reviews current provision of open space, recreation facilities, programs and services, identifying any deficiencies and opportunities to improve provisions,
•
establishes community needs and future participation demands for open space, recreation facilities, programs and services,
•
develops a new Strategic Recreation Plan for the City of Canterbury that integrates with and is informed by the City’s existing suite of plans,
•
reviews, validates and where necessary informs Section 94 Contributions Plan and Council’s ongoing Works Program.
Strategic Recreation The Strategic Recreation Plan was adopted on 23 June 2011. This will see the initiation of an Action Plan from the Strategic Recreation Plan over the coming months.
Facilities The Morris Iemma Indoor Sports Centre at Riverwood celebrated its first anniversary this year. The state-ofthe-art facility, run by the YMCA on behalf of Council, accommodates a range of different sports including netball, badminton, basketball, soccer and volleyball. It has a modern gymnasium, change rooms, cafe and child-care services. In its first twelve months the Centre has become a focal point for individuals, families and communities to come together and enjoy quality recreation time in a safe, family-friendly environment. The Centre now has over 1700 Health and Fitness members and 200 families on Family Memberships.
Pedestrian & Bike Paths The City of Canterbury maintains over 500km of paved footpaths and approximately 12km of pedestrian and bike paths. Upgrade, maintenance and expansion of these paths is documented in Councils City and Infrastructure Renewal Plan. The Cooks River Pedestrian and Cycle Path is largely an off-road facility that runs from Homebush Bay in the west to Botany Bay in the east. The route is about 34.6km long with approximately 12km running through the City of Canterbury. This reporting period we continued to upgrade our cycleways to encourage people to be more active and utilise these pathways for alternate transport options. To help people gain confidence in riding their bikes, we conducted a series of free bike maintenance workshops and bike rules workshops to ensure riders shared the path with pedestrians.
28 Annual Report 2011-12
Heritage
•
Council continues to provide a Heritage Advisory Service to the community. The Heritage Advisor provides free advice to owners of heritage items and other early buildings in the local government area, as well as advising Council on development applications and other heritage matters. We have identified 145 individual heritage items in the City of Canterbury. In addition, there are ten State Heritage Register items listed by the NSW Heritage Council.
ongoing acquisition of both written and photographic records of the City’s history and
•
Canterbury City Cemeteries Online Project.
There are 25 Conservation Policies for Council owned or managed heritage items and other significant places. These include: •
Conservations Management Plans for Moorefield Cemetery, the Orion Centre, Beulah Vista and Baby Health Care Centre Buildings at Lakemba and Punchbowl.
•
Conservation Management Strategies for seven parks, four war memorials, six significant tree plantings and three amenity buildings.
Conservation Management Plans for the former AGL building in Campsie is near being finalised. There is one Aboriginal site listed as a heritage item by Council, an art and midden site at Earlwood. Council nominated the site for State Heritage Register listing in August 2007. The Heritage Council has supported the nomination and in recognition of the significance of this site, it has been listed on the State Register as a State Significant Heritage Item. This elevated recognition provides additional safeguards to assist with the long term protection and management of the site. Council’s new comprehensive local environment plan is also expected to be gazetted in late 2012. It has additional items being listed, and the suburbs of Ashbury and a part of Croydon Park becoming a Heritage Conservation Area. The Local Studies section at Campsie Library continues to play an active role in promoting and educating people about Canterbury’s past and present, including the: •
provision of local histories and historic photographs on the council website,
•
presentation of historical talks and tours,
For the NSW History Week Festival 2012, we encouraged people to get involved in the Heritage Festival, by sharing their stories past and present. This year’s focus was on innovation and invention. Australia has a proud history of inventions – the Rotary clothes hoist or the clothes line as we commonly know it, the Victor mower, vegemite, zinc cream, solar hot water, the ultrasound, the wine cask, Cochlear implants, the baby seat capsule, the electronic pacemaker, the black box flight recorder, anti-flu medication, the list goes on and on. This year, our local Heritage Festival focused on stories about local businesses, industry and inventions – past and present. Our local businesses and industries play an important role in our City by providing employment and opportunities for local residents and their families – this exhibition was a great acknowledgement of the achievements of local businesses who contribute to our economic prosperity, as well as national innovations and inventions. For example Dr Marjorie Dalgarno started the first radiology practice in the suburbs of Sydney and performed the first mammogram in Australia in the 1950s. She practiced in South Parade, Campsie, setting up a radiological practice in her family home as early as 1929. Another example is Barbehire, which won the 2011 Local Business Awards for sustainability. Barbehire have implemented innovative environmental practices which not only reduce their environmental footprint but also improve their business.
29. Report on the condition of public works
Section 428 2(d) Period being 1 July 2011 to 30 June 2012 During 2011-2012, we continued to develop our Asset Management Information and knowledge to assist in managing the City’s public infrastructure. This Annual Report is an update on our position based on current data available. The data related to the asset categories in this report reflects the information that we obtained from our asset system. We use the AMS to identify the assets in most need of renewal funding based on a priority rating which takes into account condition, location and use.
The Infrastructure Renewal Program (IRP) commenced in the 2004/2005 financial year for a fifteen year period. We have spent an additional $22 million has been invested in upgrading local roads, footpaths and Town Centres across our City. The IRP improve the appearance and attractiveness of our City through the following program areas: •
Road Resurfacing - resurfacing existing roads in the network.
•
Road Reconstruction - reconstructing existing roads in the network.
•
Footpath Rehabilitation - repair of existing concrete footpath paving.
•
Town Centres Improvements - upgrading existing town centres.
•
Drainage - repairing drainage lines.
The IRP levy is addressing the significant debt incumbent from the City’s ageing infrastructure and will work towards preservation of these valued assets to a standard acceptable to the community. Objectives of our Asset Management Plan include: •
To establish appropriate levels of maintenance expenditure required to preserve the City’s infrastructure assets for the term of the asset life.
•
Expanded Road Maintenance and Reconstruction Programs to achieve rehabilitation and renewal of pavements in streets that are currently below a satisfactory standard.
•
Continuing a program of major drainage pipeline restorations and renewals to reduce risk, minimise liability and preserve system performance.
•
Allowing for a continuance of the current level of Footpath Program works to achieve risk management strategies and address the demands of residents for improved pedestrian access and mobility.
•
Providing for a continuation of the current level of Parks Maintenance and Improvement Programs expenditure in order to satisfy user expectations.
•
Allowing for a continuance of the current level of Building Maintenance Program expenditure.
At this stage of the IRP, attention will be focused on road maintenance and renewal programs as well as footpath and drainage improvement works.
30 Annual Report 2011-12
Evaluation of Funding for Section 428 2(d) 1. Funding required to bring Council’s Assets up to satisfactory standard 2. Funding required to maintain Council’s Assets to a satisfactory standard. The funding indicative of the above requirements is represented in the table below. The table includes the current replacement cost for each asset category, the calculated funding required for maintenance of each asset category at a satisfactory level, and the estimated depreciated replacement cost of our infrastructure. This year we have revalue the Road Infrastructure including stormwater drainage to meet the Department of Local Government requirement for fair valuation. The valuations were complete by external consultant with a detailed review of the replacement cost and the result of the valuations is tabulated below. Asset Category
Current Replacement Cost (CRC) ($)
Design Life (DL) yrs
Average Annual Renewal Cost (CRC/DL) ($)
Depreciated Replacement Cost ($)
Amount required to bring Asset up to satisfactory (replace condition 4 & 5) ($)
Buildings
91,100,688
50
1,822,014
41,988,293
11,520,981
Bridges
26,361,253
80
329,516
13,971,464
5,858,200
Drains
79,911,531
100
799,115
35,161,074
14,402,175
Footpaths
63,435,717
50
1,268,714
49,479,859
6,622,740
Park (Land Improvements)
29,663,857
40
741,596
17,798,314
4,001,058
5,004,028
15
333,602
3,602,900
575,720
53,759,644
15
3,583,976
33,868,576
6,688,069
Signs Road Surface Road Pavement
427,677,646
50
8,553,553
367,802,776
20,606,102
Road Formation
221,503,275
N/A
-
221,503,275
-
Kerb & Gutter
79,669,270
40
1,991,732
43,818,098
9,272,267
Street Furniture
6,745,901
15
449,727
2,968,196
273,689
Traffic Devices
16,670,059
15
1,111,337
11,002,239
1,236,811
20,984,882
842,965,064
81,057,812
Total
1,101,502,868
Attractive City
Programmed Maintenance and Renewal Expenditures The table below identifies the expenditure incurred for each Programmed Maintenance and Renewal for each asset category in the 2011-2012 financial year based on available financial system data. Asset Category
Maintenance & Renewal Expenditure ($)
Bridges
1,837.47
Building
2,400,136.92
Drain
321,254.66
Footpath
934,226.43
Park (Land Improvements)
5,886,805.82
Neighbourhood Signage
26,949.46
Roads
4,789,976.37
Kerb& Gutter
86,850.91
Street Furniture
113,333.14
Traffic Devices & Signage
652,471.76
Trees
799,556.78
EPA/Water Quality
174,527.29
Total
16,187,927.01
Stormwater Management Program The City of Canterbury has three main river catchments; it is a highly urbanised local government area with an extensive drainage network system. Much of the drainage system consists of concrete pipes and channels. The current Stormwater Management Program focuses on stormwater quality and stormwater infrastructure maintenance management.
31
32. Special Rate Variation
Infrastructure Renewal Levy In June 2004, following extensive community consultation, the NSW Minister for Local Government approved a special rate variation of 7.5% for a period of 15 years. This special variation is to be known as the infrastructure renewal levy and will be used to upgrade roads, footpaths, stormwater drainage, town centres and associated assets. In 2011-12, the seventh year of the levy, the amount raised was $3,082,500. Works that were funded or partially funded from the levy are listed below.
Location
Description
Actual Expenditure ($)
Concrete Footpath Rehabilitation Bayview Wavell/Homer
Wavell Pde to Homer St (L)
9,800
Bayview house#41/Bayview Ln
House No. 41 To Bayview Ln (R)
9,000
Benaroon RD Yangoora/Lakem
Yangoora Rd to Lakemba Rd (R)
5,500
Bexley Rd Calbina/#134
Calbina Rd To House no. 134 (L)
4,000
Boomerang Morgan/Richard
Morgan St to Richard Ave (R)
Canterbury Rd Stanley/Una
Stanley St to Una St (L)
11,000
Canterbury Rd Wonga/Fore
Wonga St to Fore St (L)
15,000
Chalmers Chapel/Burwood
Chapel St to Burwood Rd (L)
9,000
Dennis Boulevarde/Gilies
The Boulevarde to Gillies St (L)
6,500
Earlwood Hamilton/Helveti
Hamilton Ave to Helvetia Ln (R)
6,500
Emma St Colin/End
Colin St to The End (L)
1,500
Garema WiregaNE//WireNW
Wirega Ave Nth East to Wire Ave Nth West 速
Gillies st Moreton/Peel
Moreton St To Peel St (L)
2,000
Gillies st Quigg/Moreton
Quigg St to Moreton St (L)
5,000
Hannans Belmore/Bonds
Belmore Rd to Bonds Rd (L)
8,500
Harlod End ti Evaline
The End To Evaline St (L)
3,500
King GeorgesRosetta/Zutto
Rosetta Ave to Zutton Ave (R)
4,000
King GeorgesSylvester/Hil
Sylvester Ave to Hilton Ave (R)
3,500
King St Princess/First
Princess St to First St (R)
5,500
Kingsgrove Richland/135a
Richland Ave to Property No. 135A (L)
5,500
Laylands Pde Marie/Peel
Marie St to Peel St (R)
4,500
Margret Avoca/Clarance
Avoca St to Clarence St (L)
5,400
7,000
22,000
Attractive City
Location
Description
Actual Expenditure ($)
Margret Punchbowl/Avoca
Punchbowl Rd to Avoca Ave (L)
9,100
McDonald Punchbowl/Lakemb
Punchbowl Rd to Lakemba St (L)
12,000
McKenzie Thorcraft/Tudo
Thorcraft Pde to Tudor St (L)
2,000
McPherson Punchbowl/Viola
Punchbowl Rd to Viola St (L)
4,900
MissouriPennsylvania/End
Pennsylvania Rd to the End (R)
1,500
MorefeildRemly/Roger
Remly St to Rogers St (R)
7,500
New Canterbury Duntroon/G
Duntroon St to Garnet St (R)
6,000
Penshurst Hilton/Shorter
Hilton Ave to Shorter Ave (L )
5,000
Penshurst W Hilton/Shorte
Hilton Ave To Shorter Ave (R)
5,000
PhillipChappel/Legge
Chapel St To Legge St (R)
5,200
Railway PdeAlice/Bellevue
Alice St to Bellevue Ave (L)
7,800
ReginaldAnderson/Sharp
Anderson St to Sharp St (R)
RIchard Ave(S)Homer/Boome
Homer St to Boomerang Ave (L)
14,000
RIchard AveHomer/Boomeran
Homer St to Boomerang Ave (R)
9,500
RobinsonBoulevarde/Hilcre
The Boulevarde to Hillcrest St (R)
4,000
Roseland AveCenter/KingGe
Centre Ave to King Georges Rd (L)
8,000
Rossmore Campbell/Owen
Campbell St to Owen St (R)
4,200
Shorter AvePenshurst/Raym
Penshurst Rd to Raymond Ave (R)
5,000
St Albans Kingsgrove/End
Kingsgrove Rd to the End (R)
6,500
Taylor E Lakemba/Railway
Lakemba St to Railway Pde (L)
3,600
Taylor W Lakemba/Railway
Lakemba St to Railway Pde (R)
3,800
Turman Belmore/Pennsylvai
Belmore Rd to Pennsylvania Rd (L)
4,000
Victoria Punchbowl/Violal
Punchbowl Rd To Viola Rd (L)
8,000
Viola St Victoia/End
Victoria Rd to The End (R)
2,300
Wangee WYangoora/Lakemba
Yangoora Rd to Lakemba St (R)
8,500
Welfare Ave NorthEnd/Shor
The End to Shorter Ave (R)
6,000
William Camron/Woolcott
Cameron St to Woolcott St (L)
William Woolcott/Hood
Woolcott St to Hood St (L)
5,900
Wangee Rd (E)
Yangoora Rd to Lakemba St (L)
6,500
YerrickYangoora/Punchbowl
Yangoora Rd to Punchbowl Rd (R)
6,000
2,500
11,000
Resealing Anderson Street
Reginald Ave to Canterbury Rd
60,000
Beggs Street
Penshurst to The End
30,000
Blenman Avenue
Canterbury to Carlton Pde
50,000
Bramhall Avenue
Canterbury to Carlton Pde
55,000
Canton Street
Canterbury Rd to Ivy St
60,000
Clarke Lane
Clarke St to Lewin Ln
25,000
Clissold Pde
Moore St to Browning St
65,000
Ernest Street Stage 1
Edge St to House 107
45,000
Ernest Street Stage 2
House 107 to Canterbury Rd
45,000
Eulabah Ave
Bexley Rd to The End
45,000
Grove Ave Stage 1
Karne St to Property No. 40
50,000
Grove Ave Stage 2
Property No.40 to Penshurst Rd
50,000
Grove Ave Stage 2
Karne Street
35,000
33
34 Annual Report 2011-12
Location
Description
Actual Expenditure ($)
Hampden Street
Duntroon to Garnet St
45,000
Homer Street
Bexley Rd to Willunga Ave
50,000
Karne Street Stage 2
Graham to North End (Patch and Reseal)
18,000
Kensignton Street
House No. 43 to Cullens Rd
65,000
Leslie Street
Legge St to McCallum St
30,000
McKern Street
Orissa St to Marlowe St
Neale Street
Yangoora Rd to Lucerne St
30,000
River Street
Spark St to Willow Ln (Up to House No. 81)
40,000
Rosedale Cres
Burwood Road to The End (3 sections)
40,000
Shakespeare Street
Brighton Ave to Clissold Pde
90,000
Tennessee Place
Pennsylvania Rd to The End
20,000
Wardell Road
Fricourt Ave to Bass Rd
50,000
Wolli Ave
House No. 46 to Shaw Ave
55,000
Woodlawn Ave
Wolli Ave to Homer St (Patch and Reseal)
65,000
125,000
Roadworks Burwood Road
Redman Pde to Lakemba St
High Street
Fore St to Berna St
450,000
Kardella Cres
Hannans Rd to Broadarrow Rd Replace sections of K&G
River Street
Caroline St to the northern end Resurfacing and reocnstruction of K&G
80,000
Belfield Town Centre 1
Downes St Sideline of No 21 Burwood Rd
40,000
Belfield Town Centre 2
Punchbowl Rd Burwood Rd to Belfield Ln (R)
Belmore Town Centre 4
Redman Parade to 319 Burwood Road (east side)
245,000
Earlwood Town Centre 1
Homer St (North Side) (H1) Williams St / Lewins Lane to Earlwood Ave
325,000
Earlwood Town Centre Bins
Replace MGBs through shopping centre
70,000 110,000
Town Centre
Total: Infrastructure Renewal Program for 20112012
35,000
50,000 3,082,500
Bushfire Hazard Reduction As the City of Canterbury is fully urbanised with only very small pockets of remnant bushland, there are no activities specifically related to bushfire hazard reduction although all necessary precautions are taken. Grass cutting and cleaning of parks are carried out and this reduces the risk of fire hazard. However, these activities are not specifically part of any bushfire hazard reduction program.
Work on Private Land Minor pruning of trees and repair of a fence and masonry wall was carried out on private land in 2011-12. Full costs were recovered in relation to one of these jobs. All other works were undertaken at Council’s expense.
36. ANIMAL CONTROL & MANAGEMENT
Statement on activities relating to enforcing and ensuring compliance with the Companion Animals Act and Regulation
Regulation Impounded Animals – 1 July 2011 to 30 June 2012 Dogs Impounded – 257 Cats impounded – 942
Dog attacks Data relating to dog attacks is lodged with the department as required. A total of 18 dog attacks were reported and investigated.
Funding The amount of funding spent relating to companion animal management and activities was $222,868.
Community Education Site inspections and assistance is provided to the community. During this period, several education mail outs were undertaken to advise residents of responsible pet ownership, micro-chipping and lifetime registration.
Off leash areas provided in the Council area 1. Richard Podmore Oval, Karne Street, Narwee 2. Peace Park, Trevenar Street, Ashbury 3. Close Street Reserve, Canterbury 4. Craig Street Reserve, Kylie Parade, Punchbowl 5. Cooks River Foreshore, Sixth Avenue, Campsie 6. Hughes Park, Warburton Parade, Earlwood 7. Peter Moore Field, Tudor Street, Belmore
Financial control Funds received are used to provide Companion Animal Management and promotion.
Additional information The Responsibility of Pet Ownership Companion Animals Act 1998 •
Makes Local Government responsible
•
Sets the framework for Local Govt. to deal with issues
Promotion of the de-sexing of companion animals
•
Specifies controls in relation to –
•
Registration - ensure compliance
Promotion and advertising at Council fairs and in the Council column.
•
Leashes in public places – enforced through education and fines
•
Dog attacks investigated
•
Prohibited areas – removal of animals
•
Disposal of waste – enforced through warnings and fines
•
Dealing with stray animals, includes collection, transport and housing
•
Dangerous dogs and restricted breeds – management and inspections
Strategies to seek alternatives to euthanasia for unclaimed animals Council worked closely with our Pound service provider in relation to re homing unwanted pets. For the period a total of TBA dogs and TBA cats were re homed.
Attractive City
Canterbury’s Companion Animals Management Plan 2006
Restricted Breeds and Dangerous Dogs
•
•
Certain Breeds are classified as Restricted and special requirements apply under the Act
•
Examples of such requirements are – Childproof enclosures, muzzles, specially coloured collars, warning signs
Whilst the Act sets out the framework for the keeping of animals there is a need for individual Councils to determine how they intend to exercise powers and how they might use non-regulatory techniques. For example: Community events and individual advice
•
Details the manner in which we intend to deal with companion animal related matters
•
•
Sets out intended actions that our Rangers and Council will carry out over a 4 year period
All restricted/dangerous breed dogs must be de-sexed and can not be re-housed or sold
•
We inspect premises housing these animals
The following matters have been identified as issues that need to be addressed in relation to the keeping of animals: •
Welfare of animals
•
Attitude to de-sexing of animals
Problems with Inadequate Control of Dangerous Dogs and Restricted Breeds
•
Benefits of owning pets
•
•
How to choose a pet
Court proceedings and Penalty Infringement Notices were issued this year for non-compliance
•
Uncontrolled and aggressive dogs harming children and other vulnerable people
•
Fines exceed $1,300
The role of Canterbury’s Animal Control Officer •
Investigates all aspects of complaints dealing with all domestic pets/animals.
•
Defend Enforcement action in Court
•
Investigates complaints relating to the keeping of dogs
•
Educates pet owners
•
Supply and assist with reported feral cat problems (cat trap service)
37
38. Priority Projects
Priority project Infrastructure Renewal Projects
Upgrading Belfield, Belmore and Earlwood Town Centres
Status 27/27 road resurfacing projects completed, 46/53 footpath rehabilitation projects completed (3 in progress, 2 scheduled for July, 2 to be completed by Ausgrid), 1/1 new footpaths project completed. Footpath paving works have been completed in Belmore and Belfield Town Centres, and the section of work planned in Earlwood has been completed. Work continues in Earlwood.
Focus on illegally dumped rubbish
A strategy to respond to Illegally Dumped Rubbish is currently being prepared.
Start of five-year program to resurface concrete roads
3/4 road reconstruction projects completed, 1 in progress.
Implementation of the Master Plan for Canterbury Town Centre Economic development activities, improving industrial precincts, attracting business investment, and promoting regional partnerships
Several applications for the precinct have been received, marking the beginning of development in accordance with the Masterplan. The Anzac Mall Place Management Strategy was adopted by Council in October 2011. Campsie Saturday Markets trial ended in March, but the market will not continue. Negotiations are almost complete in relation to Voluntary Planning Agreements to obtain funds for the project to reopen the Mall. An online economic profile presenting key statistics on the Canterbury City economy has been established.
39. Principal Activities
Long Term Goal 1.1 Attractive streetscapes Services provided:
Service Standards Met
Abandoned vehicles - assessed and removed 540 vehicles City appearance improvements - completed 1 streetscape improvement project Community events clean up - completed 10 event clean-ups Council waste and litter bin emptying - collected 720 tonnes of waste Dumped rubbish - removed 2,181 tonnes, completed 43,713 pickups Graffiti removal - removed 673 instances of graffiti Metal fabrication and welding - 205 major fabrication jobs completed Pre-booked clean up service – 16,952 services provided Public toilet cleaning – cleaned all amenities blocks twice daily Street cleaning – cleaned 370 km of streets weekly Street furniture and infrastructure cleaning – cleaned 3,900 items of street furniture Street tree management - completed 650 inspections, 3,525 maintenance jobs, 1,638 customer requests Streetscape maintenance – mowed over 15,000 nature strips Town centres cleaning – cleaned all eleven town centres daily Tree preservation order administration – assessed 666 applications Weed control – completed 300 inspections and treatments
Initiatives completed: Prepared a draft strategy to combat Illegal Dumping Strategy measures: Result
Target
132
40
0
10
Strategy: Ensure streets and public places are kept clean Complaints about cleanliness of streets Complaints about public toilets
Status
40 Annual Report 2011-12
Long Term Goal 1.2 Balanced urban development Services provided:
Service Standards Met
Development assessment panel – assessed 125 applications Section 149 Certificates – produced 2,750 standard, 131 priority certificates Environmental assessments – conducted 112 assessments Annual fire safety statements – processed 1,129 annual fire safety statements Places of shared accommodation inspections – conducted 27 POSA inspections Development assessment – determined 744 applications (YTD Total) Building certification – issued 49 Sale of property building certificates, 95 Illegal works building certificates, and 134 occupation certificates
Initiatives completed: Incorporated Tree Preservation Order and Policy into local planning instruments. Prepare LEP and DCP for Canterbury Road corridor. Prepared draft city-wide LEP and DCP. Continued to implement the State Government Planning reforms. Maintained accreditation of Council building certifiers. Commenced review of development assessment processes. Strategy measures: Result
Target
Status
Strategy: Assess recommend improvements and regulate where necessary environmental performance of industrial and commercial businesses Proportion of environmental assessments requiring a follow up inspection
51%
25%
Strategy: Ensure customers are well informed and treated fairly through an efficient development assessment process Number of valid complaints relating to development assessment
1
1
Strategy: Assess and report on development applications and issue building related certificates Average gross processing time (days)
87
80
Average net processing time (days)
31
40
Attractive City
Long Term Goal 1.3 Prosperous local economy Services provided:
Service Standards Met
Management of street stalls in town centres – processed 471 applications Town centre investigations – attended to 45 requests Town centre audit program – conducted 10 audits Town centre event support – supported 4 major events Local Chambers of Commerce & Industry Networks support – maintained contacts with each group Economic Development Committee– held 3 meetings Filming applications – processed 19 applications for filming (YTD Total) Australian & International Council Partnerships – supported 5 visits
Initiatives completed: Undertook periodic Industrial Precinct and Town Centre Business Surveys Prepared an Industrial Precinct Improvement Plans Reviewed major local community events to identify opportunities to improve outcomes for local businesses. Commenced implementing the recommendations of the Anzac Mall Place Management Strategy Investigate the most effective means of communicating with local businesses. Reviewed and updated the Economic Development area of Council's website Reviewed the composition and role of the Economic Development committee to more appropriately reflect local business needs and the Economic Development Strategy. Implemented online reporting of information on local employment and business growth. Promoted and supported existing youth employment initiatives such as the Employment Expo Continued to participate in and support appropriate regional economic development initiatives such as the Southern Sydney Regional Profile. Promoted sustainable business practices at business events and forums. Established a Sustainable Business Award
41
STRONGER COMMUNITY
44. HIGHLIGHTS
One of the most important jobs of our Council is to set the strategic direction that guides our work to improve life in our City. Council works hard to continually improve the range and quality of our services and an important part of doing this is listening to our residents. The key benefit to understanding our community’s views is the ability to provide services, projects and programs that respond to community needs, wants and aspirations – uniting and strengthening our community with values we all pride ourselves on: respect, unity and peace. Our Community Strategic Plan has been instrumental in identifying priority areas for us to develop and coordinate programs to meet our Access and Equity commitments as well as emerging issues facing residents, businesses and community groups within our City of Canterbury.
Our Community Strategic Plan identifies the long-term aspirations our communities have for life and work in Canterbury City. It describes the City’s future through five themes: Attractive City, Stronger Community, Healthy Environment, Strategic Leadership and Improving Council, each with Long Term Goals and Community Outcomes, which cover the broad range of topics that are important for our City and our communities. The focus of the Community Strategic Plan is the Community Outcomes, which reflect the many thoughts, views, wants and needs expressed by our communities and stakeholders through the 2010 ‘Imagine Canterbury’ forums and surveys. The top ten community priorities were: Community Harmony, health and safety; Community facilities; Attractive urban environment; Healthy Cooks River; Effective Consultation and communication; Responsible resource; Local business growth and employment; Transport alternatives that work; Vibrant town centres; and Recreation Centres. The Community Outcomes are expressed from the community’s perspective, and as much as possible in the words that people in our community have used. Alongside the Community Outcomes are Strategies – which Council, partner organisations and individuals can use to work towards achieving the Community Outcomes, and Trend Indicators – things that can be monitored to determine if progress toward the Community Outcomes is being made. Our 2012 End of Term Report attached as an Appendix addresses the implementation and effectiveness of our Community Strategic Plan.
Local Demographics Our City has a population of almost 130,000 people, with residents from over 129 different countries. Almost half of our population were born overseas, with 45% of our population born in non-English speaking countries - 20% of all overseas born arrived in Australia within the last 5 years. The largest non-English speaking country of birth in the City of Canterbury was China, where 7.1% of the population, or 9,806 people, were born. The major differences between the countries of birth of the population in the City of Canterbury City and Greater Sydney were:
Stronger Community
•
A larger percentage of people born in China (7.1% compared to 3.4%)
•
A larger percentage of people born in Lebanon (4.9% compared to 1.3%)
•
A larger percentage of people born in Greece (3.9% compared to 0.7%)
•
A larger percentage of people born in Bangladesh (3.0% compared to 0.4%)
Between 2006 and 2011, the number of people born overseas increased by 5,162 or 8.5%, and the number of people from a non-English speaking background increased by 5,243 or 9.3%.
good English skills. The challenge for Council in applying communication strategies to inform residents not just about our services but to consult with them in community languages and encourage greater participation in government still exists though due to other communities with a low proficiency in English. The following are the top ten countries of birth of CALD residents in our area: Country
Percentage among born overseas
China
7.1
The largest changes in birthplace countries of the population in this area between 2006 and 2011 were for those born in:
Lebanon
4.9
Greece
3.9
•
Bangladesh (+2,098 persons)
Vietnam
3.1
•
Nepal (+1,169 persons)
Bangladesh
3.0
•
China (+1,088 persons)
India
1.8
•
India (+871 persons)
South Korea
1.7
Italy
1.7
Indonesia
1.5
New Zealand
1.4
The English proficiency of new settlers is on average much lower in Canterbury than in the Sydney statistical division. 14.7 % of people in our City who speak another language report difficulty with speaking English. Overall, 29.7% of persons spoke English only, compared with 62.2% for Greater Sydney. The face of Canterbury is constantly changing with more and more families from the Asia-Pacific region settling in the area. This has remained a general trend after the last two censuses. The Chinese community has outgrown the Lebanese and Greek communities which used to be the most predominant groups in Canterbury. Emerging dominant groups come from Bengali, Indian and Nepalese backgrounds. At the previous Census, the Department of Immigration settlement data, was showing that most settlers to this area came sponsored under the Family Reunion Program or were refugees and a significant proportion did not possess good English skills. However, since that time, there has been a significant increase in the numbers of skilled migrants settling in the area. People arriving from Nepal or Bangladesh for instance tend to arrive as students or skilled migrants rather than as refugees, however they are migrating from a country which is experiencing upheaval. People arriving from India are mostly arriving as skilled migrants and possess
45
Access and Equity Access and Equity Activities are those that benefit the broad community and/or specific target groups and help us to: •
Promote fairness in the distribution of resources, particularly for those most in need.
•
Recognise and promote people’s rights and improve the accountability of decision-makers.
•
Ensure that people have fairer access to economic resources and services essential to meeting their basic needs and improving their quality of life.
•
Give people opportunities for genuine participation and consultation about decisions affecting their lives.
We are committed to developing Access and Equity and Social Justice programs across all of our relevant activities. In line with this commitment, the Local Government (General) Amendment (Community and Social Plans) regulation requires all councils to prepare a Social Plan and include an Access and Equity Activity summary in their Management Plan and Annual Report.
47.
COMMUNITY & RECREATION Multicultural Programs
Mental Health Workshop for Emerging Communities As a recommendation of the Multicultural Advisory Committee we developed a partnership with relevant stakeholders to deliver a Mental Health Workshop for leaders from emerging communities. We worked with the Metro Migrant Resource Centre, Carer Assist, Ethnic Childcare, the Department of Family and Community Services, and the Central Sydney GP Network to offer the workshop. The workshop was held during Mental Health Month, on 19 October 2011 at Lakemba and it targeted leaders of communities from Sudan, Southern Sudan, Somalia, Sierra Leone, Northern Africa, Yemen, Burma and Bangladesh. The workshop aimed to facilitate discussions with these communities on mental health awareness, how to manage mental health issues and navigating the pathway through mental health services. The workshop was attended by community leaders mainly from the Sudanese and Bangladeshi community groups who engaged very positively with the guest speakers from the Transcultural Mental Health NSW, the Mental Health Co-ordinating Council and the Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre. Participants raised questions and shared their perceptions of mental health issues in their respective communities. Targeted information packs were provided to each community leader with fact sheets, service directories and information on pathways through a health system and appropriate referrals. An excellent outcome of the workshop was that the Bangladeshi community groups present at the workshop then planned to organise a joint information seminar focusing on mental wellbeing of their community in 2012.
Multicultural Information A key component for access and equity is ensuring all residents are informed of council services, facilities and programs. In accordance with our Multicultural Advisory Committee Strategic Plan, we conducted an information session for our Financial Assistance Program (FAP). Six community organisations attended, most of which targeted people of diverse cultures. Five of these groups were new to the FAP process.
Refugee Week Celebration Through the Financial Assistance Program, we funded the Canterbury Bankstown Migrant Interagency to organise a Refugee Week activity. In accordance with our City Plan and our Refugee Welcome Zone in Canterbury policy, two Council employees were actively involved in the project Working Party. The Refugee Week activity was a family celebration aimed at young families of refugee background. The event encouraged the active involvement of refugee children in art and craft activities and provided presentations of case studies by refugee groups and performances. It was held with the involvement of over 200 people in the Lakemba Library building on 20 June 2012.
Canterbury Emerging Communities Resource Centre (ECRC) On 9 September 2010 our City Services Committee resolved to establish an Emerging Communities Resource Centre (ECRC) in the basement room of the Lakemba Senior Citizens Centre/ Lakemba Library building. This resolution was in response to the Multicultural Advisory Committee’s recommendation of 7 July 2010. The idea of the Centre is to provide an incubator for support organisations for new and emerging communities to grow and develop. The Centre was officially opened by the Mayor, Robert Furolo MP on 21 October 2011 in the presence of 72 community representatives at the Living Diversity in Canterbury Community Forum held at Lakemba Senior Citizens Centre. Use agreements were signed with the five tenant groups at ECRC in November 2011 and operations officially began in early December 2011. One of the licensees, Canterbury Community Hub Inc. purchased office equipment with funding from ClubGRANTS and made it available to other ECRC groups to use. Other donations of office equipment were secured from the Riverwood Community Centre and the office of Hon. Tony Burke, Federal Member for Watson. We formed a Steering Group for the ECRC comprising representatives of the five tenant groups and Council. Meetings have been held quarterly to discuss the guidelines of operation for the centre and possible ways for groups to work together in order to deliver new capacity building programs and source some government funding in the future as well.
48 Annual Report 2011-12
We have assisted four of the five tenant groups to obtain a joint public liability insurance cover to promote greater resource sharing, cost reduction and to empower groups to act collectively. The fifth tenant group has had sufficient resources to secure their own insurance and will not be a part of this insurance scheme. Further, the Canterbury Community Hub Inc. received funding from ClubGRANTS towards a series of information seminars to be conducted at the Emerging Communities Resource Centre in the 2012-2013 financial year and these seminars will be open for other ECRC groups to attend.
ECRC Open Day An Open Day of the Emerging Communities Resource Centre was held on 22 March 2012 to coincide with National Harmony Day and to promote the centre’s operations to the broader community, local media and service providers. The program of the day included information exchange and networking between the ECRC representatives and local service providers prior to a small official ceremony conducted over lunch time. 42 members of the local community visited the ECRC office during the open day with 11 service providers being represented at the event. The occasion highlighted the positive outcomes of emerging communities coming together under the umbrella of the Emerging Communities Resource Centre and the considerable progress made on this community capacity building project since its commencement in December 2011.
Living Diversity in Canterbury: Social Inclusion of Small and Emerging Communities’ Forum A working party of the Multicultural Advisory Committee planned the above community leaders’ forum as recommended under the 2011-2012 MAC Strategic Plan. The focus of the forum was on giving a voice to new and emerging communities and learning from the experiences of communities that have faced similar issues and have established successful support networks. The program of the forum included the official opening of the Emerging Communities Resource Centre by the Mayor, presentations of case studies by the Sudanese Australian Association, the Sierra Leone Women’s Network and the
Somali Development and Integration Centre. Presentations by more established communities were provided by Co As It and the Lebanese Community Council of NSW. These presentations focused on settlement in Australia, capacity building strategies and fundraising efforts over the various stages of development of their respective organisations. A colourful display of art effects from Sudan and Sierra Leone and African entertainment were also part of the day and a tour of the ECRC space was conducted for forum participants at the conclusion of the program.
MAC Strategic Planning Forum On 6 September 2011 our Multicultural Advisory Committee held a Strategic Planning Forum setting key priorities for the Committee and Council in the coming year and beyond. The Forum discussed the needs and issues facing our diverse communities and planned strategies to address identified needs and issues.
Canterbury Meals on Wheels Open Day Our partnership with Canterbury Meals on Wheels and Tripoli and Mena Association resulted in an Open Day being held by Meals on Wheels on 20 July 2011 to promote their halal accreditation to the Muslim community in Canterbury. Approximately 40 people participated in the Open Day and sampled the delicious halal food on offer. Representatives from the Egyptian, Bangladeshi, Lebanese and other Muslim communities took part in the event. As part of the program participants heard from a nutritionist who spoke about the importance of diet in maintaining good health and well being. The audience also engaged in fun and dynamic physical activity to promote the benefits of regular movement and physical exercise. Other organisations present expressed interest in hosting a similar Open Day for their respective communities as a result of their participation in this event.
Stronger Community
Meals on Wheels Open Day, Lakemba
Women’s Only Swimming Programs The success of women’s only swimming programs conducted by NSW Sport and Recreation at Roselands Aquatic Centre has continued this year. Since 2007, this program has been attracting women and girls from diverse cultural backgrounds and classes have been consistently booked out.
Language Aide Program Our Language Aides, who speak nine community languages including: Arabic, Cantonese, Greek, Indonesian, Italian, Korean, Mandarin, Spanish and Vietnamese have assisted our customer service staff and our field officers in dealing with non-English speaking residents and customers on 2953 occasions over the past year. We are proud to offer this service to our residents and ratepayers.
Family & Children’s Services We continued to co-ordinate and resource the Canterbury Child and Family Interagency (CCFI) and its projects with our community partners focusing on young families from linguistically and culturally diverse backgrounds until 30 June 2012. Playgroup in the Park events which were introduced by the Interagency several years ago are now happening across the City twice a year attracting young families from diverse backgrounds and a wide range of training workshops for the child and family support service providers are being conducted on how to work with local migrant families. The Canterbury Child and Family Interagency program, engaged in a joint forum with Canterbury Bankstown Migrant Interagency targeting those working with CALD families in Canterbury to share information about programs/ services and suitability for the families they work with and to network with other service providers. The auspice of the Canterbury Child and Family Interagency Project transferred to Koorana Child and Family Services as of 1 July 2012.
49
50. Aboriginal SERVICES
School Based Aboriginal Awareness Program Our Canterbury Aboriginal Advisory Group continued to raise awareness of Aboriginal heritage and culture for primary school students (Yr 1-4) and pre-schools through environmental/history walks and traditional culture learning experiences such as bush food workshops at five local schools, one pre-school and one vacation care centre.
Two Valley Trail Reconciliation Walk A partnership between the Canterbury Aboriginal Advisory Group and Cooks River Valley Association resulted in a highly successful Reconciliation event being held on Sunday 18 September 2011. Preparations for the Walk commenced in September 2010 and involved a wide publicity through the Aboriginal networks in the Inner West region, local environmental groups and Council’s Advisory Committees. The event was attended by nearly 400 people and combined with a community barbecue and official Welcome to Country and a very effective and spiritual Smoking Ceremony at Gough Whitlam Park in Earlwood.
51. COMMUNITY INFORMATION SERVICE
Civic Education Program for new migrants
Parental Engagement Initiative
Our Community Information Officer delivered six sessions of our Civics Education Program for newly arrived migrants in collaboration with English training agencies, and community based English conversation classes. This program has been an effective strategy over the years to inform newly arrived migrants of the role and services of local government in Australia and the specific programs the City of Canterbury delivers for our residents. Our Community Information Service also provided multi-lingual information to residents at Town Centres, local festivals, community events and citizenship ceremonies.
The Parental Engagement Initiative continued to work with parents at Punchbowl Boys High School. This initiative is a partnership between City of Canterbury and Bankstown City Council, Centrelink, Creating Brighter Career Connections, MTC Work Solutions, NSW Education and Training, Punchbowl Boys High School, and TAFE South Western Sydney Institute. The Parental Engagement Initiative has offered a basic computer skills course, as well as an information session on parenting teenagers and a basic computer skills course. Further engagement with the parents is continuing, ascertaining their required skills to further strengthen the Parental Taskforce, to enable the group to mentor new parents.
Community Information Service Our Community Information Service and mobile van provided information and advice on Council’s services as well as local community and non-government services to residents. It visited town centres in our City twice per week, as well as local festivals, events and citizenship ceremonies. Information is provided on a range of issues such as health, consumer rights, safety, accommodation, mental health, parenting, young people, drugs and alcohol, legal issues and migrant settlement. Information is also provided on services for children, families, young people, people with disabilities, people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and older people.
Apprentice Info Day The Apprentice Info Day was held on 1 May at Bankstown Sports Club. This initiative is part of our commitment to offering employment-related initiatives alternating between Canterbury and Bankstown LGAs; in this case our partners were State Training Services, Bankstown City Council, Breakthru People Solutions, Jobfind, MTC Work Solutions, NSW Department of Employment Education & Workplace Relations, and NSW Department of Education. The day was well-received with 140 high school students and young people in alternative education attending. Nine Group Training Organisations spoke to small groups of young people about apprenticeships and traineeships that will be available later this year.
International Women’s Day We have continued to convene Canterbury Women’s Issues Network which staged two events for International Women’s Day in March 2012. The theme of the events was Supporting Women’s Economic Empowerment. Guest speakers included local businesswoman, Monica Brewer, who spoke about the Six Principles of Successful Business. This presentation was followed by a panel of four local small-businesswomen, who shared their experiences and recommendations to the women in the audience who were interested in starting, or were currently working on, their own home-based or small business. Several other local business women spoke individually to participants about what challenges they had faced, and how these had been overcome.
Boarding House Outreach Project We have partnered with Newtown Neighbourhood Centre’s Boarding House Outreach Project, and are working with them in their visits to unlicensed boarding houses in the City of Canterbury. We will continue to support the initiative with health, housing, further education, financial management and local service information, and further capacity building activities as mutually agreed.
52 Annual Report 2011-12
Salvos Legal Humanitarian with City of Canterbury In response to the great need for access to legal advice and information for our resident, we partnered with Salvos Legal Humanitarian to deliver such a service in our City. Salvos Legal Humanitarian with City of Canterbury began offering free legal information and advice to our residents on Tuesday 16 August 2011. The service has operated from Lakemba Senior Citizens Centre for one day per week for a pilot period of one year. In its first pilot year, the service accepted 302 new matters. The types of matters that residents received assistance with were: Family 20%, Immigration 13%, Debt 12%, Crime 9%, Insurance 6%, Welfare 5%, Housing 4% and Other 32%.
Access and Disability The Disability Access Committee and it’s six sub-committees were again very active this year in supporting programs and facilities for residents with disabilities. Program and initiatives during the year include the following:
Access Audit of Council’s Parks Members of the Disability Access Committee conducted an audit of 20 local parks and ovals particularly regarding the following issues: •
Pathways - need to be wider and comply with Disability standards for passing clearance of two wheelchairs. Path surfaces need to be firm and comply with AS 1428.1 Paths should be regularly swept clean of foliage from trees and plants dropping on them to reduce the risk of them becoming slippery.
•
Sanitary facilities – sanitary facilities need to be accessible to people with disabilities, be unlocked and available during daylight hours and kept as clean as practicable.
The report was compiled with a snapshot of the condition of the standard and accessible toilets on the particular day of the survey and also listing a number of disability access recommendations that, if implemented, would improve the accessibility and general amenity of the surveyed parks for our residents with disabilities.
These improvements constitute a long-term program of improvements for consideration in a future Council Works budgets.
Bus Stop/Bus Shelter Audit A Bus Stop Audit was also commissioned from the Independent Living Centre NSW and priority listings were prepared for inclusion in our future Works Program. The Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport were formulated under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 to enable public transport operators and providers to remove discrimination from public transport services and establish minimum accessibility requirements in accordance with a staged 20 year compliance timetable. Our Disability Access Committee resolved to undertake an audit of Council’s public transport infrastructure (bus stops and bus shelters) to determine their level of compliance with the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002. This review requires that at least 25% of facilities be compliant with the Standards. The working party prepared three Action Plans prioritising the 157 bus shelters / bus stops covered by the audit for inclusion in future works programs.
Mental Health & Wellbeing Forum At its meeting on 8 December 2011, Council resolved to develop a two-month Mental Health and Wellbeing Awareness Campaign for September and October 2012 in partnership with our Disability Access Committee. Through that resolution, Council supported a Forum early in 2012 to establish a management team, guidelines and program for the campaign. The Campaign “Canterbury Connects” was to coincide with The RU OK Day held on 15 September each year and October being World Mental Health Month. A Campaign planning Forum was held on Wednesday 28 March 2012 at the Canterbury Hurlstone Park RSL, with the attendance of over 40 individuals representing 28 external agencies and our Advisory Committees. Two representatives from each of Council’s Advisory Committees were present at the Forum to help plan this important Campaign.
Stronger Community
The Forum achieved its aims of promoting the Campaign and engaging organisations and taking the first step towards forming a Steering Committee. Some of the outcomes of the forum and issues proposed for the Campaign to address were: Social Inclusion and De-stigmatisation of mental illness •
Mental health promotion based on culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) strategies and programs, as well as generational considerations.
•
People who are prepared to speak out on their own behalf, on the behalf of others. People who are prepared to report others who are in potential danger to themselves or to others.
•
Strengths-based practice.
Education / Awareness Raising •
Reaching marginalised groups in mental health/illness e.g. CALD, men, Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islanders and victims of violence.
•
More active in community participation – increased community strength and engagement, leading to greater support network for clients.
•
Community members able to detect first signs of mental illness and respond in a sensitive manner.
Mental Health Event The Mental Health Network Sub-committee of the Disability Access Committee and several Mental Health-related organisations formed a planning committee to deliver an activity during Mental Health Month in October 2011. The principal event was the 10th annual Mental Health event, again held at the Canterbury Earlwood Caring Association, Earlwood. All community organisations engaged in this project provided information from their stalls. These included Grow NSW, Wesley Mission Community Support Services, Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre and Councils Community Information van.
Missed Business Guide The Committee also focused on the preparation of a Missed Business Guide aimed at encouraging shopkeepers and business operators in the City of Canterbury to provide equitable and dignified access to their premises, in return for an expected increase in business. The Guide was launched on the annual International Day for People with Disability on 3 December 2011. It is also being proposed to translate the Guide into key community languages relevant to Canterbury’s business community.
Young People Our Youth Services team has continued to provide support and assistance to local young people including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds (CALD) and young people ‘at risk”.
Adolescent and Family Counsellor The Adolescent and Family Counsellor delivered face to face, telephone counselling, therapy, support services and referrals to a total of 94 clients and 417 services. Case management, counselling and therapy work focused in many cases on family mediation and reconciliation between parents and young people which promoted positive changes in their relationships. Applying Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Gestalt and Narrative Therapy helped clients develop skills in managing anxiety, anger, depression and frustration in non-violent ways, engaging clients in alternative education programs more relevant to their individual needs, working through issues of physical and sexual abuse, suicide attempts, developmental progress and increased sense of self and confidence of clients through counselling and successful engagement in the activities of Belmore Youth Resource Centre.
Young Men’s Support group The Young Men’s Support Group, established in August 2009 continued to flourish with young men engaging in a series of structured workshops. The Youth Services team have been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to engage the skills
53
54 Annual Report 2011-12
of an external facilitator, with over 30 years’ experience in the youth work field. The Young Men’s Support group program included “My Life, My Journey workshops which assisted participants to explore ways of simultaneously being who they are and being true to their heritage while being part of and participating in the Australian world of living. The number of group participants increased from 13 to 23 from beginning to end of the program. The Young Men’s Support Group camp took place in December 2011 in Myuna Bay. The 15 young men involved were from diverse linguistic and low socio-economic backgrounds and subsequently may not have otherwise been afforded the opportunity to engage in the variety of recreational and challenge activities offered at camp. The cultural backgrounds of the young men who attended included: India, Lebanon, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Samoa, Cook Islands, Turkey, Indonesia, Jordan, Australia and New Zealand. The camp enabled young people and workers to interact in a team setting, thus providing opportunities to form and develop relationships and it encouraged young people to feel more comfortable accessing youth services at Belmore Youth Resource Centre.
School’s Out The Youth Team in partnership with Campsie Police and Fusion Australia, delivered School’s Out with a total of 18 interactive life management and personal development skills workshops delivered to two local schools namely, Wiley Park Girls High School and Canterbury Girls High School and Belmore Boys High School. A total of 42 students participated from these schools and the program explored topics like: sense of self, effective communication techniques, anger awareness/management, stress management, body image, men’s health, drugs & alcohol, sexual health, mental health, how to help out a mate - and ultimately, ourselves. The participation from young people has been fantastic, with many young people accessing services and programs that they previously were unaware of (e.g. school holiday program).
Young Women of the World Group The Young Women of the World is a program for 12-24 year old open to young women from a variety of backgrounds that either live, study or work in the City of Canterbury or attend the Belmore Youth Resource Centre activities. The group is a joint initiative of our Youth Services Team, along with workers from Canterbury Bankstown Multicultural Youth Health Service and Campsie Police Ethnic Communities Liaison Officer. The participants engaged in the following workshops: Healthy Relationships, Stress Less, Employment, Paths to Potential Resilience and Cyber Bullying, Money Savvy Budgeting, Snack Attack Competition (nutrition) and a six week Art Therapy Workshop. The young women who participated in these workshops gave feedback that they enjoyed the groups because they felt safe, had lots of fun meeting new friends and doing the activities, learnt new concepts and engaged in discussions that allowed them to express their own opinions and experiences and felt accepted for who they are regardless of their backgrounds. As a reward of the young participants’ commitment to the program, 9 young women enjoyed a camp at Port Stephens where the girls enjoyed a dolphin cruise, surf lessons, beachcombing and swimming.
Learn to swim program The Learn to Swim was offered to young women who were newly arrived to the City of Canterbury. The main aims were: •
Increase regular and on-going participation opportunities in sport, recreation or structured physical activity in a sustainable manner.
•
Address barriers to participation in sport, recreation and structured physical activity.
Ten young women participated in the Learn to swim program and subsequently, some of them became involved in the school holiday programs.
Stronger Community
School Holiday Program
Canterbury Youth Council:
The City of Canterbury provides a subsidised School Holiday Program every school holiday period, for young people aged 12-20, who live, work or go to school in the City of Canterbury. This is a great way for young people to have fun while they are not at school and engage in safe low or no cost activities. The program has been successful in engaging young people over the school holidays with each period attracting an average of 300 young people across various activities. These include free drop in activities at the Belmore Youth Resource Centre such as dance competitions, cooking workshops and trivia. In addition, the Belmore Youth Resource Centre organised excursions, including: Jamberoo, Taronga Zoo, Swimming etc.
Youth Council members had opportunities to participate in training and teambuilding in 2011-2012. The training aimed to provide new members with the necessary knowledge and skill set to advocate on behalf of young people in the Canterbury area through our Youth Council. Furthermore, the training aimed to assist new members with understanding the structure, style, and practicalities of Youth Council.
The Belmore Youth Resource Centre offers a free drop in service on Wednesdays and Fridays, during school term. Young people can use the internet, play table tennis, the wii, fuseball, board games and have access to various services, including: •
Adolescent and Family Counsellor
•
Doctor – GP service and Nurse (including family planning)
Young people also have access to the Youth Development Officer and the Youth Activities Officer, who have been able to offer referrals to other services where required.
Community Connections Project The Social Work in Schools project involved eight social work students (two blocks of four) exploring the strengths within school communities and endeavoured to create links with schools, services and communities to address learning barriers that children and young people may face. This project was a partnership between the City of Canterbury, The Department of Education and Communities and the University of Sydney. The findings from this research project aimed to identify emerging issues that young people are exposed to within our community. The full report, with recommendations from this project have been relayed to local service providers and the schools involved in the project in anticipation of a collaborative approach being adopted to address these issues.
Youth Council members also had the opportunity to attend the NSW Youth Council conference. The Conference was held jointly between Newcastle Youth Council and Lake Macquarie Youth Advisory Committees from Friday 25th November until Sunday 27 November 2011. This gave members the opportunity to meet other Youth Advisory Committees from across NSW and gain an insight into the opportunities and responsibilities that young people have within our community. Feedback from the young people that attended was positive, with new relationships formed and a wider network established for sharing information and ideas. It is anticipated that the young people involved in the Youth Council will have the opportunity to attend similar training events in the 2012-2013.
Intensive English Centre: The Beverly Hills Intensive English Centre offers newly arrived young people the opportunity to enrol in education, with a strong focus on developing their English language skills. The Belmore Youth Resource Centre offers the school the opportunity to regularly bring young people down to the Centre, to experience what is on offer. The drop in equipment is set up; information is provided via the City of Canterbury Youth Services staff on various programs, services and opportunities for recreation and education. The IEC excursions have proven to be very popular, with approximately 15 young people per school term attending the excursions. The program operates every school term and in the year 2011-2012, approximately 60 young people participated in the excursion to the Belmore Youth Resource Centre. This has allowed the City of Canterbury to promote various programs, such as the Learn to Swim program and the School Holiday program to young people who may otherwise be isolated.
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56 Annual Report 2011-12
Red Shield Appeal
Youth Week 2012
The Salvation Army organises the Red Shield Appeal every year to raise funds to support their work with disadvantaged people. The doorknock collection within the City of Canterbury was scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, 19 and 20 May 2012.
Youth Week was held in April 2012. Canterbury Youth Council organised a festival at Riverwood wetlands. This included free rides, information and the X Factor competition. Free information was also available at the festival on a range of services that are available to young people within the Canterbury local government area.
Participation in the doorknock involved working with another volunteers to ‘doorknock’ a neighbourhood to request donations on behalf of the Salvation Army. Volunteers were briefed by the Salvation Army as to what was required. In addition to directly supporting the appeal, Youth Council members and staff supported the appeal by distributing information about the call for volunteers to other agencies and schools.
Youth Week 2012, Riverwood
The responses from young people were very positive. It was a great opportunity for youth council members to meet more students from the local government area and to also engage with them.
57. OLDER PEOPLE
unmet and forthcoming needs for Community Transport in our LGA by:
Seniors Week 2012 On Monday 19 March a Concert was held in Anzac Mall to celebrate and launch Seniors Week 2012. It was opened by our Mayor Cr Brian Robson who officially launched Seniors Week for 2012 in the City of Canterbury. The day comprised entertainment from seniors groups in the area and information stalls relevant to older people. Some of the performances by seniors groups included: •
Sydney Korean Senior Performance Group
•
Earlwood Folk Dancing Group
•
Chinese Australian Service Association Seniors Group
Despite the inclement weather, the event was well attended with approximately 300 people present at the event throughout the day. This attributed to the foresight from the working party to install marquees and covers. A calendar of 23 events was also held throughout the week and revolved around three themes: knowledge, active and entertainment. Some of the activities included, an Historical Bus Tour of Canterbury, Mobile Phone training for Seniors, a News Reel Viewing and a Cryptic Crossword Workshop. Approximately, 550 people attended the Seniors Weeks activities for 2012 across all the events including the concert.
City of Canterbury’s Ageing Strategy 2011-15
1. reviewing changing demographics of LGA precincts 2. review the mini bus shuttle service 3. operate transport forums targeting older people and people with a disability and organisations serving these groups of people. •
Unused funds recovered as a result of the review of the Canterbury City Bus Scheme were donated to Bankstown Canterbury Community Transport towards the purchase of a vehicle dedicated to health related transport for Canterbury residents.
•
Join the heart foundation walking program and establish walking groups in the area – The Healthy Communities Coordinator is working with the Heart Foundation to support existing walking groups and establish new groups in Canterbury.
•
Provide a variety of Sustainability Workshops and Tours for older people including Earthworks and waste reduction education – An Environmental Sustainability workshop on Power Saving using the Home Save Power Kits that residents can borrow from our Libraries was held in March in conjunction with Seniors Week.
•
Continue to coordinate a program of events including Seniors Week, Mental Health Week, Carers Week and International Women’s Day and encourage the participation of older people in these events – In March, successful International Women’s Day and Senior’s Week events were held. The Community Development team is currently working on an exciting program for the Mental Health and Wellbeing Campaign that will coincide with Mental Health Week and Carers Week in October this year.
In the year since the City of Canterbury’s Ageing Strategy was launched, 17 of the 29 actions due to commence in the year 2011-12 are under way with the remainder to start by the end of 2012. Below are some of the major achievements for the first year of implementation of our Ageing Strategy: •
•
Review the Canterbury City Bus Brokerage Scheme – This has resulted in the extension of the program to include Bankstown Canterbury Community Transport and has seen funds from the scheme reallocated towards the City of Canterbury’s Financial Assistance Program and a Travel Training Program for Canterbury residents. This was achieved with a saving of $5000.00 per annum to the total cost of the scheme. Work with Community Transport and Inner South-West Community Development Organisation to identify
The focus for the next year of the Strategy will be firstly, to continue to build on our achievements during its first year and secondly, to commence the next phase of the strategy that includes the following key actions: •
Form a sub committee to review priority localities for developing Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plans (PAMP) to create safe, convenient and connected pedestrian routes.
58 Annual Report 2011-12
Seniors Week Concert, Campsie
•
Make representations to Inner West Councils in regards to developing a common policy position on squalor and hoarding.
Environmental Sustainability Workshops for older people
•
Develop a Positive Ageing Communication Strategy that includes use of appropriate language, key messages, challenging myths about older people and a portfolio of positive images.
A number of workshops on sustainability aimed at older people were held at throughout the City, following recommendations from Senior Citizens Advisory Committee.
•
Working with services for older and young people to collaborate on an intergenerational activity.
•
Translate ‘A Guide to Services for Seniors in the City of Canterbury’ into key community languages.
It included a Save Power Workshop that aimed to orient participants on how to use the ‘Save Power Kit’ as a means of taking control of their household power usage. The workshop was delivered by an expert presenter and covered the following topics: •
How to use each tool in the kit.
•
How to use the kit’s workbook and guide to find what uses the most power in your home.
•
Discussing ideas, tips and easy steps to improve the energy efficiency of houses to save money, power and reduce impacts on the environment.
Those that attended reported that the workshops were useful and the quality of discussion was very high. They also reported learning new things for instance, switching off appliances at the power source when they are not in use and, installing insulation to better regulate temperature in the house and reducing the use of air-conditioning and heaters.
59. Community Safety
Community Safety and Crime Prevention Plan 2012-2015 The purpose of a Community Safety and Crime Prevention Plan is to direct our community safety and crime prevention programs for the next three years. The Plan is a document that outlines Council’s commitment to community safety and improving the quality for life for residents. Our new Plan for 2012-015 was developed over the course of the year. The Department of Attorney General and Justice allocate a possible $50,000 each year over three years as part of their Community Safety Compact initiative. A current Community Safety and Crime Prevention Plan makes us eligible to apply for this funding. The draft Community Safety and Crime Prevention Plan 2012-15 focuses on two prominent crime categories in Canterbury City. The crimes identified in the Plan are Steal from Motor Vehicle and Malicious Damage (Graffiti). To identify these priority offences, extensive research, community consultation and collaboration with local stakeholders was conducted. The Plan is currently with Department of Attorney General and Justice for consideration and endorsement.
Operation Bounce Back round 8
between Council, NSW Fire Brigades, Canterbury City Community Centre and the NRMA. The Community Safety Committee has been a strong supporter of the program and has continued to fund its development. Since receiving our support and that of the NRMA, the program has seen the installation of 1618 smoke alarms and batteries to local residents.
Next of Kin Register The Next of Kin Register is an initiative by NSW Police to enable people who live alone to record their details in the register. The register holds information of the nominated Next of Kin, as well as information on doctors and dentists, along with medical alerts. The information aims to assist the ambulance and police in an emergency situation to be able to inform a relative or other nominated person of the situation. Those who register will be provided with a key ring and a sticker that is to be placed on the home phone, in order to alert emergency services that the person is registered with the Next of Kin Program. The Community Safety Committee acknowledges the importance of such a register in identifying a relevant person in an emergency situation hence implemented a comprehensive community awareness strategy consisting of: •
Advertising the register in the Mayor’s Column
•
Promoting the register to Senior Groups through the dissemination of flyers
•
Promoting the register to local youth through dissemination of flyers
•
Advertising the register on Council’s web page including an option to download the form
•
Advertising the register in our Community Report
•
Smoke Alarm and Battery Replacement for the Elderly
Advertising the register through social media such as Facebook and Twitter
•
The SABRE (Smoke Alarm Battery Replacement for the Elderly) Program has been operating successfully in the City of Canterbury since June 2003. The program is a partnership
Discussing the register at our Advisory Committee meetings (Senior Citizens, Youth, Multicultural, and Disability Access).
•
Disseminating a covering letter with a flyer to participants of the SABRE program advising them of the register.
The National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council (NMVTRC) provided Council with $35,000 in direct funding to implement the eighth round of Operation Bounce Back. The project aims to reduce car theft in Canterbury by providing 150 free immobilisers to residents who own a high risk vehicle. In addition, a variety of education materials were distributed throughout the community to raise awareness about car theft prevention.
60 Annual Report 2011-12
Since its inception, 325 Canterbury residents have registered with the Next of Kin program through the Campsie Local Area Command (increased by 200 registrations since February 2012). From these registrations, 95% of residents indicated that they were made aware of the initiative either through receiving a flyer from Council, our Mayor’s Column and our social media. This percentage evidences the important role Council plays in raising community awareness through the use of existing data bases such as SABRE, Advisory Committees, social media, and existing networks such as Youth and Seniors Groups.
Domestic Violence In 2007, the then NSW Department of Community Services (DOCS) funded the Canterbury and Bankstown Local Government Areas to develop a domestic violence education program. A committee comprising representatives from both Councils as well as members of Bankstown and Canterbury Domestic Violence Liaison Committees was subsequently formed and the It’s Time to Talk (ITTT) program was developed. The Committee organised a Professional Development Forum for Child Care Workers on 3 November 2011 at Punchbowl Community Centre. The topics covered in the workshop included: •
Basics of domestic violence
•
How to talk to families about domestic violence
•
Support services are available in the Canterbury and Bankstown local area
•
Strategies for working with children in a domestic violence situation
•
Legal requirements for reporting
•
How Apprehended Violence Orders affect parents’ access to children
Feedback from the attendees reinforces the effectiveness of the forum in providing Child Care Workers with updated knowledge on domestic violence issues: •
100% of attendees reported that an increase in understanding of domestic violence support services
•
94% of attendees reported an increase in understanding of Apprehended Violence Orders
•
97% of attendees reported an increased knowledge of strategies for working with children in domestic violence situations
•
97% of attendees reported that the information provided was relevant to their work
Operation Car Safe The NSW Department of Attorney General and Justice (DAGJ) provided Council with $50,000 in direct funding to implement Operation Car Safe. The project aimed to reduce car theft in Canterbury by providing 175 free immobilisers to residents who own a high risk vehicle. In addition, a variety of education materials were distributed throughout the community to raise awareness about car theft prevention. Campsie Local Area Command provided data which identified that Motor Vehicle Theft remained stable across Canterbury Local Government Area throughout the implementation of Operation Car Safe. The project’s implementation stage began in July 2011, with press releases and educational material disseminated in the community. The immobiliser vouchers were disseminated to eligible residents in August 2011 – February 2012.
Community Safety Summit A Community Safety Summit was held on Wednesday 27 June 2012 at Belmore Youth Resource Centre. The objectives of the Community Safety Summit were: •
To raise awareness of the role of Local Government in Community Safety and Crime Prevention
•
To discuss real and perceived safety issues in Canterbury
•
To discuss and agree priority safety issues for Canterbury
•
To discuss strategies to address the priority issues for Canterbury
Discussion at the Summit was lively and key concerns identified by participants included: •
Public perceptions of crime in comparison to actual low levels of crime
Stronger Community
•
Lack of lighting around railway stations and commuter car parks
•
Need for increased visibility in policing
•
Impact of crime on young people
•
Impact of crime on residents ability to participate in their community
Graffiti Educational Program The objectives of the graffiti educational program were: •
To create awareness of the criminal, physical and emotional consequences of undertaking graffiti (in particular tagging), for the individual, their family, their school and the community
•
Increased education for our communities on actual levels of crime and ways to stay safe through workshops and seminars
To offer alternate avenues of self expression on a local level (e.g. programs and activities for youth via youth services)
•
•
Conduct lighting audits around railway stations and commuter car parks
To encourage positive decision making and responsible action
•
•
Increase police patrols in high visibility locations such as town centres
To reinforce life skill curriculum already delivered in schools around civic pride and social responsibility
•
To provide self help and peer help options and strategies
•
Increased support for young people experiencing difficulties at home
Strategies suggested by participants included: •
Due to the localised nature of crime and the importance of the perception of safety at a neighbourhood level, it was recommended by Council that a Summit be held in each ward of our Local Government Area to enable residents and community representatives the opportunity to discuss local solutions to address local crime and safety priorities. We are proposing to hold the first of three Ward based Community Safety Summits in East Ward in November 2012.
The graffiti educational program was delivered to 506 students in year 5 and 6 (10-11 years old). The program was delivered at the following Public Schools: •
Campsie Public School
•
Earlwood Public School
•
Wiley Park Public School
•
Canterbury Public School
The statistical data from the student surveys, coupled with the student comments indicated: •
99% of students reported that they enjoyed the presentation
•
99% of students reported that they believed they had a better understanding of the consequences of graffiti following the presentation
•
A significant number of primary students (10% or 50 students) indicated that they have considered doing graffiti - and it is likely that this figure is somewhat understated with some students possibly reluctant to reveal this
•
Following the presentation 99% of students indicated that they now think graffiti is uncool
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62 Annual Report 2011-12
62.
RECREATION
Aquatic and Fitness Centres The Roselands Aquatic Centre (RAC) and Canterbury Aquatics and Fitness Centre (CAFC) continued to service our community well with over 320,000 visits to these facilities in the 2011-12 year. These facilities provide a range of programs and activities between them including learn to swim, squad training, aquarobics, leisure swimming, fitness classes, and weights and cardio training at the gym at Canterbury Aquatic and Fitness Centre. The facilities also underwent their winter maintenance programming with the rotational application of major service and repair works being carried out this year at Roselands Aquatic Centre over six weeks during the winter period of June to early July. Major service work was conducted on the outdoor pool plant and filtration system while an investment was made into a new indoor pool condenser gas heater. The new gas heater upgrade is specifically designed to be more energy efficient while the outdoor pool is functioning at its best to maintain our excellent pool water quality. Both CAFC and RAC continue to work side-by-side with the Royal Life Saving Society NSW to ensure that the aquatic facilities are well maintained and operating in a safe manner to deliver their services. The Aquatic and Fitness Centres undergo a RLSS NSW Aquatic Facility Safety Assessment annually and in May we again achieved an excellent result in retaining our 5 Star Safety Partnership rating with RLSS NSW. This program sees the assessment of several areas of Aquatic Operational Compliance such as general administration and technical operations, First aid, Facility design, Supervision and public safety and Swimming programs to promote and achieve an industry standard as determined by RLSS NSW. This assist us to ensure our customers have access to safe Aquatic services and our staff a safe place to work.
Health and Fitness The Fitness services at the Centres saw over 69,000 attendances across the last year. Participants enjoyed the benefits of our exercise programs in the gym and cardio room, through fitness and aquarobic classes and group bookings. Various promotional strategies were delivered throughout the year continuing to attract new members to the Centres and retaining our current members. Launches for the new music
and choreography for the Les Mills BodyPump, BodyStep and BodyAttack programs were held every three months and continue to be our most popular fitness class offering. Theses launches are very well attended and help to inspire both instructors and members, keeping the workouts fun and fresh. The highly successful exercise program ‘Beat It’ supported by the Diabetes Australia Council has continued to run at the CAFC throughout 2011-2012. The classes operate three times per week and participants benefit much from the class with through weight loss, strength building, better balance (which decreases risk of falls), improved flexibility and an increased quality of life in helping control their diabetes.
Swim School The Swim School’s programs continue to expand and grow in both of our aquatic facilities. In the past year over 165,000 attendances were attributable to our Swim School’s programming, ranging from infants in baby beginners classes and older school students up to advanced squad level swimmers. All attendees participate in sessions each week under the instruction of our well trained Swim and Squad Coach staff. While Learn to Swim (LTS) experienced some minor growth general, an approximate 4% increase in numbers was particularly seen at CAFC. The Swim Squads have also seen an increase in attendance, specifically at the RAC with numbers increasing by approximately 4% as well in this reporting period. Term 4 (October – December) is amongst the busiest terms for our Swim School on top of daily lessons and squads programming seeing the inclusion of local school programming at its peak. This program is designed for (primary) schools serving to provide aquatic education and safety skills to the external school community with approximately 85% of the schools swim and safety program being conducted within these months.
Stronger Community
Morris Iemma Indoor Sport Centre
The Morris Iemma Indoor Sports Centre (MIISC) is managed and operated on Council’s behalf by the YMCA of Sydney (The Y). So far The Y’s contribution in delivering the MIISC has been pivotal to our community and is supported by the great feedback that we have been receiving from the community. As at 30 June 2012, MIISC had over 1700 registered membership units with over 150 of these units being ‘family’ memberships meaning approximately 2800 plus individual members. The MIISC reported over162,000 visitations through the annual reporting period with approximately 80% of this attendance attributable to the Health and Fitness offering around gym and fitness classes. The Y has also continued to conduct various programs to reach out to and encourage community connectedness such as Member breakfasts, Health and wellbeing seminars, Family Fun Nights, Fee Assistance Programs and the Brightsides Program which assists mental health sufferers to manage their physical and emotional wellbeing. More recently in The Y opened a Womens Only Health Suite, located within the MIISC, which provides a fitness space for girls and women all of which reflects The Y’s ability to listen to the needs of the local community to deliver on their service objectives. MIISC has performed extremely well as a healthy community asset and our partnership with the YMCA continues to present many other unanticipated outcomes across a range of areas for Council. The Y’s ability to adapt to the needs of the community with an inclusive approach for community and particularly families is a valued asset in the partnership between the YMCA and City of Canterbury.
Healthy Communities Initiative The City of Canterbury was successful in obtaining third phase funding through the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing funded Healthy Communities Initiative (HCI). This project commenced March 2012 and will run until 30 June 2014. Funding received will support the establishment of a number of healthy lifestyle activities across the City of Canterbury under the Active Canterbury Together (ACT) project. The HCI predominantly targets adults not in the paid workforce, and who are at risk of developing chronic disease. Council has established an ACT Project Reference Group to assist with the development of the project and provide expert advice and links to the target groups. Our reference groups consists of representatives from within Council, Sydney Local Health District, YMCA, Cancer Council NSW, Inner West Sydney Medicare Local, NSW Sport & Recreation, Canterbury City Community Centre, Lakemba/Wiley Park School as Community Centre, Punchbowl School as Community Centre and Canterbury Multicultural Aged and Disability Support Services. Pilot programs will commence in 2012 with programs officially rolling out across the City of Canterbury in 2013. A webpage for the ACT project will be available through Council’s website and will contain details of programs as dates and locations are confirmed.
63
64. Celebrating Our Diversity
With people from over 129 backgrounds we have much to celebrate and be proud of in the City of Canterbury. We embrace our diversity and provide community festivals and events to highlight our cultural diversity, town centres, unique shops, restaurants and businesses, as well as community spirit, talent, and creativity. Our festivals and events are built on the values of: peace, unity and respect and promote community harmony, understanding and tolerance.
For the festival, Beamish Street is lined with over 60 food stalls to excite all five senses with so many things to see, smell, touch, taste and hear. Campsie is like this all year round, and this year, we produced a ‘Foodies Guide to Campsie’ with our ‘Feast of Flavours’ Guide to entice people to come back and explore some of the great restaurants we have. Whilst the Campsie Food Festival focuses on food, it is also a family fun day with Lion dancing, a sideshow alley with free rides, and we featured local entertainment plus three great big brass bands.
Our biggest festival for the year is our Haldon Street Festival in Lakemba, which attracts over 20,000 people to experience all that Lakemba has to offer - great food, entertainment, culture and people. The festival now in its twelfth year starts with a great community street parade featuring over 20 groups and over 100 people and is a chance for non-residents to discover what a hidden treasure Lakemba is, with some of the best Arabic restaurants and shops in all of Sydney.
Throughout the year, we also promote Local Government Week which is an opportunity for people to get to know the important work we do and to learn more about the wide range of programs, activities and services we offer. To recognise the efforts of resident in beautifying our City, our established Spring Garden Competition acknowledges the pride, dedication and joy people get in gardening their homes and community gardens.
The Haldon Street Festival provides an opportunity for community groups and schools to perform cultural dances, songs and music on stage, and we have also introduced a ‘Canterbury’s Hidden’ segment to expose budding performers to the entertainment industry and a live supportive and engaging audience. With three stages of entertainment, free rides for kids and 96 stalls – the Haldon Street Festival is always a great day - colourful, vibrant and exotic – just like the people of Lakemba.
This year, Council also hosted a Greek Film Night -Moonlight Cinema at Gough Whitlam Park – as part of the Greek Festival of Sydney. Despite all the rain, people came out to Gough Whitlam Park to enjoy an open-air cinema experience. Our Earlwood Village Festival continued to celebrate of the unique charm and character of this bustling suburb. The Festival plays host to local bands, dancers and performers, amusement rides, entertainment and international cuisine, and reflects the quintessential Earlwood character. Earlwood is one of the most bustling, thriving town centres in our City of Canterbury. Its reputation is second to none for long-established, high-quality, boutique small businesses and retailers, which reflect our diverse, flamboyant and enthusiastic community.
Community Festivals & Events
To continuously engage our community and keep pace with emerging forms of communication, this year we launched our first ever Haldon Street Festival festival website: www. haldonstreetfestival.com.au. Which proved to be a fantastic success and received some very positive comments, particularly from local businesses who got on board and saw it as a great opportunity to promote Lakemba. We have also broadened our community methods to social media through facebook, twitter, flickr, youtube, and pinterest, as well as weekly electronic direct mail. Our Campsie Food Festival, now in its thirteenth year, keeps getting bigger and better, and the range of mouth-watering food on offer is second to none. However, it’s not all about eating, it’s also about learning how to cook and prepare food, and this year we incorporated principles of sustainability with stallholders encouraged to use bio-degradable plates and cutlery. We also had Phil Dudman and Julie Ray from Garden2Kitchen show us what great food can be whipped up from backyard vegie gardens.
Our Carols in the Park event heralds the festive season, with so many people coming together for such an uplifting occasion, supporting our community and dazzled by wonderful performers and a special guest appearance from Santa! This event leads into our Volunteers Thank You party and Australia Day celebrations which reflect on the rich history of our great country and remember the efforts of those pioneers who helped build this nation, and those who continue to make it great by devoting their time to help others making our City a great place to live and work. Our Citizen of the Year recipients are formally recognised the evening before Australia Day in conjunction with our annual volunteers thank you party and citizenship ceremony.
66. LIBRARY SERVICES
Library & Innovation Our libraries at Campsie, Lakemba, Earlwood and Riverwood are not just about books and reading, they hold a wealth of knowledge and are the first port of call when people want to know more about the world and its traditions, cultures and histories. Whether it be studying a language in the HSC, travelling overseas, or learning about the history of another country, our libraries have wide variety of events, books, magazines, videos and online services to help get people started. We have over 51,950 library members with over 2,000 people visiting our libraries each day, demonstrating the importance and popularity of these important community assets. Libraries are not just about books, they offer English classes, JP services, pre-school storytime, school holiday activities, author talks, computer classes and educational workshops , book groups (English and community languages) and homework help. Our libraries are vibrant atmosphere with plenty going on and have a fantastic track record of holding exciting cultural events that enable people to learn, see and experience, firsthand the traditions, culture, food and heritage that enrich our local community. To reflect the diversity within our City, we have an extensive range of multicultural resources, which have proved popular with those who want to hear about news from home, read a book in their native language or watch a movie from their homeland. Our libraries have also kept pace with technology and the way people receive and process information. Library users can access the internet, online catalogues and databases, and a fantastic range of new audio books, eBooks and music titles for free through all our libraries wireless service – they just need to bring a laptop, smart phone or tablet and connect – everything is literally at their fingertips. We have also introduced an exciting and diverse range of new electronic educational programs, including the Issues in English online language program and the new online IELTS (International English Language Testing System) program to help residents from Non English Speaking Backgrounds to achieve their ideal IELTS result. As well as Mango Languages to our online services, providing language learning tuition to users in 35 different languages.
Our catalogue system has been updated with Libero Uno, an amazing program providing library users with a simple Google-like search interface with massive search capabilities across our library catalogue and online databases. As our libraries embrace the digital age, they continue to remain relevant, interesting and inviting and continue to be a great venue for residents to learn from each other, tell stories and share experiences. Over the past year we continued to run our popular Author’s Talks program, HSC talks, tax help, Neighbours and the Law, Healthy Eating for Children and Taxation Basics for Small Business. Our English Language classes which are run by volunteers continue to grow in popularity and have now expanded to Lakemba Library. Our computing classes have also diversified to include Social Media and we have introduced a new early childhood literacy program called Read Aloud. Our Celebrating Cultures program remains very popular with our community. Not only does it highlight and focus on traditions, heritage and culture of different countries, but it introduces the library to an audience who may not have been aware of the extent and range of our services. This year we conducted a Vietnamese Celebrating Cultures event, as well as Harmony Day celebration, started English classes at Lakemba Library and Multilingual storytime at Lakemba Library and we have rebranded our flyers with a more accessible style.
Children and Youth Programs
National Year of Reading
Our Children’s and Youth team, along with branch staff, continue to amaze with the wide range of creative and interesting programs and activities they provide for young people in our area. Children’s Book Week is always a real highlight and this year was no exception. More than 2,000 primary aged students attended Book Week performances at our libraries.
Surveys still show that more people come to our libraries to borrow from and use our collections than any other single reason. We promote a love of reading through many of our programs, starting from Baby Bounce and Rhyme Time, through to our Book Groups for youth and adults and of course our author talks.
Throughout the year our holiday and after school programs included mosaic making, drumming workshops, origami, a teddy bear party, monster craft and so much more. In addition to our regular programming, we celebrated National Simultaneous Storytime and once again held HSC talks. Your Tutor, the online tutoring program which provides access to skilled tutors in a in a chat room environment was once again funded by local clubs and we thank them for this as it is a highly successful service which is really valued by our students. In house, our own tutors continue to provide a great service which was attended nearly 3,000 times!
Our Authors Talk program attracts a wide range of interesting speakers and this year we enjoyed listening to Margaret Ruckert share some of her food inspired poetry as well as crime writer Shamini Flint. We are both challenged and excited by the amazing impact of the eBook and look forward to extending our collections in this area in the coming year as well as actively participating in the National Year of Reading.
68 Annual Report 2011-12
Technology and Social Media
Aged and Disability
This year we launched our eLibrary with the inclusion of eAudiobooks into our collections. We also began a Blog especially for the National Year of Reading as well as a Facebook page.
Earlier this year a Have a Yarn group was begun at Campsie Library. This is an opportunity for people to get together to knit and make craft as well as have a chat over a cup of tea or coffee. It has proven so popular that a group has now begun at Riverwood Library.
The library website now includes an eLibrary section which includes online resources such as language learning, computer training and Children’s ebooks in addition to the eAudio, eReference titles and online databases. Our online computer training programs – Computer School.net and our English Language Learning resources are proving particularly popular. Additional grant funding is enabling us to undertake a project to expose library users to new forms of mobile technologies.
Outside our walls Reaching outside our library helps to promote our services, programs and collections as well raise awareness of the role of libraries in the community. This year we have participated in the Campsie Food Festival, the Riverwood Festival, the Haldon Street Festival and the Canterbury Bankstown Children’s Festival at Harcourt Public School. We also supported the Cooks River Wetlands Tour which has been established to promote a wider appreciation of local history and environment. As a regular part of programming library staff also visit community centres, nursing homes and preschools.
In the April school holidays, an inspirational drumming workshop was conducted by Andrew Hewitt, a man with intellectual disabilities. The workshop was held for children over 8 years and was a great success. Libraries really do help build communities and this is demonstrated so well by two of the programs which are run by our Aged and Disability staff. These are the Home Library Service and Library Bus Christmas Morning Tea and the Links Computer training for Seniors. The Christmas Morning Tea is so appreciated by all who attend as they get to meet other people and share stories over a delicious morning tea. The Links Computer training brings local high school students together with seniors who want to improve their computer skills. It’s a one on one situation and students and seniors alike get something very special from this.
Building improvements This year we refurbished Riverwood Library, creating a modern, welcoming and vibrant space for the Riverwood community. Whilst preliminary work is being undertaken in readiness for a new Riverwood Library as part of the Riverwood North redevelopment, the current library has been in need of a makeover and in 2011 we were successful in obtaining Community Building Partnership funding to contribute to renovating the library. The works undertaken included recarpeting, repainting and installation of a new information desk along with new furniture and shelving. Along with comfortable lounge room style reading areas, there is a more open layout and a more contemporary look. The improvements have been welcomed by the Riverwood community.
69. CHILDREN’S SERVICES
Caring for Kids A key objective in our City Plan is the provision of high quality services for children aged from birth to 12 years. We provide many different types of services, including children’s centres (long day care), occasional care, family day care, outside school hours care, and an early childhood intervention (speech pathology) service. Our children’s centres at Earlwood, Hurlstone Park and Lakemba cater for 40 children each day, while Punchbowl caters for up to 48 per day, with an average total of 268 children attending across all centres for the year. In this year, Canterbury Family Day Care had an average of 396 children attending, and Carrington Occasional Care had an average of 116 children per quarter. Before School Care at Clemton Park had an average of 40 children, After School Care at Clemton Park and Lakemba had a total average of 93 children, and Vacation Care at Clemton Park, Lakemba and Belmore North had a total average of 224 children attending. Our Speech pathologists worked with a total 102 children during the year. The new Education and Care Services National Regulations and Quality Standards replaced the previous regulations and separate accreditation system in January 2012. These regulations relate to our children’s centres and family day care, and now also include Outside School Hours Care. Occasional care continues to be regulated under the 2004 regulations for the time being. The new regulations include changed requirements for staff qualifications by January 2014; staff to child ratios by January 2012 for children aged under 2 years; and January 2016 for children aged 2 to 3 years. Our services have already implemented the new requirements for staff qualifications and for ratios for under 2 year olds. In order to cater for the increased staff requirements under lower ratios of 1:5 for 2 to 3 year olds in 2016, we have commenced a gradual implementation of higher fees, rather than waiting until 2016. Our children’s services have been working with the new National Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and have continued to attend training in relation to this and the new Education and Care Services National Regulations and Standards. A lot of time and energy has been spent on amending current policies and paperwork, developing new forms and procedures, attending various information and training sessions, and ensuring that each service is meeting the new requirements.
We have established the Children’s Advisory Committee as a support for Council’s commitment to the Unicef Child Friendly Cities Initiative. This committee comprises representatives of various agencies working with children and/or young people and families in the local government area, as well having a parent representative. The committee has started work on reviewing service policies and paperwork to reflect children’s rights, as well as assessing services against the relevant articles in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. An important part of the delivery of our children’s services is raising awareness of the issues facing children of all ages. We are proud to be a partner with National Association for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN) to support their efforts to raise awareness of child abuse and neglect and to keep children safe from harm. To recognise this all of our children’s services participated in National Child Protection Week, promoting the week with families, providing information about NAPCAN, Child Protection Week, children’s rights and keeping children safe. Sustainability is a significant factor in today’s climate and as such is also a key area in the national Quality Standards for early childhood education and care services. Our services continue to work on raising awareness of sustainability issues among staff , families and children, as well as improving our environment through activities such as recycling, saving water & energy, planting vegetable and herb gardens. A significant goal in our operating plan relates to working with Aboriginal children and families, ensuring our services are welcoming and inclusive of families from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island background. We will continue to work with the Aboriginal Advisory Committee on this goal, as part of an ongoing plan for professional learning for staff and for important changes to our service programs. Literacy plays a significant role in our curriculum, with children learning about print and developing an appreciation for reading. All of our children’s services participate in National Simultaneous Storytime, where the same book is read to children at the same time right across the country. This is a fun way of acknowledging the importance of books in children’s lives. Our centres also loan books to families, and Lakemba Children’s Centre parent committee established a children’s borrowing library at the centre.
70 Annual Report 2011-12
Family Day Care, Campsie
Our Children’s Centres provide a transition to school program for children moving into kindergarten after their time with us. We have a strong partnership with local schools and during the year, children make several visits to local schools and participate in school readiness programs. We also hold school expos with local Principals providing information on school readiness for families in our centres. Some of our services hold “graduation� ceremonies for the children moving into a school environment to farewell them and acknowledge their learning while attending our services. Children attending our services are fortunate to have the opportunity to enhance their learning through excursions to a wide range of places of interest and also through visitors
that bring extra experiences to the centres. Excursions usually reflect the learning themes and activities that are in the curriculum for the children and that relate to current areas of interest. Visitors to the centres include artists, musicians, animal keepers and the very popular local fire brigades. Our Early Childhood Intervention Service provides assistance to children with disabilities, in particular with speech and language delays or disorders, and their families. Specialist staff of two speech pathologists and an early childhood educator provide an itinerant early childhood intervention service within the City.
Stronger Community
71.
COMMUNITY GRANTS
As part of our commitment to supporting local organisations building community, we provided financial assistance under Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993 during 2011-12 as follows: Organisation ALGWA NSW Moree Flood Appeal
Amount ($)
Amount ($)
Canterbury Multicultural Aged
1,818
Al-Mabarat Benevolent Society
200
Canterbury SES
2,000
Ashbury Italian Seniors Social
455
Canterbury Sierra Leone Youth Movement
500
Ashbury Tai Chi & Social Group Inc
500
Canterbury South Public School Playgroup
1,545
Asian Youth and Culture Council
727
Children's Festival Org. Inc
1,818
Australia Day Botany Bay Regatta
750
Chinese Parents Association
1,545
Australian Arabic Family Cohesiveness In
900
Co.As.It
Australian Cancer Research Foundation
600
Croydon Park Chamber of Commerce
Australian Islamic Mission Inc
541
Diana Photi
Australian Korean Welfare Association
2,000
Organisation
2,864
Awaiki Nui Performing Arts Group
250
Bangladesh Australia United Society Inc
455
Bangladesh Community Council Inc Bangladeshi Australian Village Inc Bankstown Canterbury Community Transport Bankstown City Council Belfield Chamber of Commerce
1,818 500 28,400 564 1,300
2,000
Earlwood Aged Support and Care Group
1,300
Earlwood Italian Seniors Citizen Group
1,091
East Africa Drought Appeal 2011
5,000
Ethnic Childcare Family & Community
1,000
Greek Orthodox Community of NSW
1,364 1,364
Greek Welfare Centre
250
Handital NSW Inc
Campsie Cultural Centre Inc
864
Horizon Theatre Company Limited
Canterbury Childrens Cottage Canterbury City Community Centre
250
Fusion Australia Ltd
500
Canterbury Bankstown Sierra Leone
273
Earlwood Playgroup
Burwood Council
Campsie-Kingsgrove Probus Club
250
Earlwood & District Chamber of Commerce
Belmore PCYC
Campsie Earlwood Clemton Park
455 1,000
409 1,545
1,091
Human Appeal International Australia
200
400
Inner West Community Transport Inc
421
Japanese Orphans Fundraising Committee
300
Jasmin Lebanese Restuarant
282
1,000 909 1,818
Keep Australia Beautiful (NSW)
300
Canterbury City Council
150
Koorana Child & Family Services Inc
Canterbury City Wolves Rugby League
909
Korean Society of Sydney, Australia
3,300
455
Lakemba Bangla School Inc
1,364
Lakemba Italian Seniors Social Group
1,182
Canterbury Community Child Care Centre Canterbury Community Childcare Centre
16,590
Canterbury Earlwood Caring Assoc Ltd
1,818
Lakemba Star (Senior's Group Inc)
Canterbury Family Support Catholic Care
1,818
Lighthouse Sports & Recreation Ministry
40,655
350 1,818
71
72 Annual Report 2011-12
Organisation
Amount ($)
Organisation
Amount ($)
Local Government & Shires Association
213
St John's Campsie ESL Classes
Maronite Church of Australia
375
St Joseph's Riverwood Bursary Fund
1,000
St Matthews Anglican Church of Australia
1,818
Metro Migrant Resource Centre Metro Migrant Resource Centre Inc
1,545
St Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Church
300
Muslim Women's Association
5,000
Stefano Chiandotto
500
Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities Forum
1,364
Sudanese African Women's Association
909
Punchbowl Uniting Church
800
273
Sudanese Australian Association
1,300
Rangdhanu Aus-Bangla Culture Society
1,500
Sudanese Social Society Incorporated
2,000
Recreation & Peer Support Inc
1,364
The Cancer Council of NSW
152
600
Recreation, Sports & Aquatics Club RSAC
409
The Inner Western Circle Inc
1,818
Riverwood Community Centre
8,382
The Korean Society of Sydney Australia
2,000
Riverwood Community Centre Inc
4,736
Theatre Organ Society of Australia Inc
4,500
Tripoli and Mena Association
1,227
Vietnamese Seniors Assoc Canterbury Inc
2,000
Riverwood Health Food and Deli Riverwood Legion & Community Club Riverwood Squadron
400 25 1,364
War Widows Guild of Aust NSW Ltd
455
Roselands Raptors Soccer Football Club
682
Woman's Place
Rotary Club of Campsie
265
X-Ray Theatre
Rotary Club of Campsie Inc
400
Canterbury Community Childcare
14,983
70
Rental Subsidy- Canterbury City Community Centre
18,200
Rental Subsidy- Canterbury Earlwood Caring Association Ltd
27,300
Inner West Community Transport
39,313
Salvation Army Campsie Senior Italian Australian Community
1,800
SHARE (SMR) Inc
909
Simon Millman
250
Somali Development & Integration Centre
909
Special Olympics Australia Sydney St John Ambulance Australia
1,273 100
Grand Total
1,364 1,818
306,059
73. Priority projects
Priority project Status Partnership with Food NSW improving health and hygiene of local restaurants
$8.5 million redevelopment of Belmore Sports Ground, and improvements to parks and sportsgrounds such as new floodlighting for Parry Park, and redevelopment of Ewen Park Implementing our Ageing Strategy with services and activities that promote healthy ageing
Investigating options for community facilities to expand the range of uses and users, and renew some of our older buildings
Arrangements implemented to comply with new Food Safety legislation requiring a Food Safety Supervisor to be appointed to certain food businesses. Food inspection program was completed with 25% more inspections completed than planned. Work on Belmore Sports Ground complete and reconstruction of Peter Moore Field is in progress. Construction of two mini soccer fields at Ewen Park is complete. The basketball court at Tasker Park has been relocated. Artificial turf cricket wickets have been resurfaced at Parry, Rudd, Croydon and Lees Parks. Shade structure installed over play equipment at Yatama Park.
The official launch of the Ageing Strategy took place on 6 October at Morris Iemma Indoor Sports Centre. Special guest speaker Dr Aline Smith, Senior Lecturer at the Sydney School of Medicine at the University of Notre Dame Australia presented practical advice to senior Canterbury residents about the benefits of physical activity, social connections and mental health. Projects completed include Seniors Week, an Historical Bus Tour of Canterbury, a 50s and 60s News Reel Viewing, and Easy Care Gardening and Home Power Savings Workshops Input has been provided to Department of Housing preliminary plans for the North Riverwood Housing Project which will include community facilities including a new library, and a Voluntary Planning Agreement is being negotiated.
74. PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES
Long Term Goal 2.1 Embracing Diversity Services provided:
Service Standards Met
Community event coordination - facilitated 6 major community events Citizenship ceremonies - naturalised 972 people Local Heritage and Culture - 370 attendees at 5 programs
Initiatives completed: Implemented a Refugee Week initiative with community partners Implemented "Proud to live in Canterbury" community leaders forum Co-ordinated implementation of the Two Valley Trail Reconciliation Walk in conjunction with Aboriginal Advisory Group and Cooks River Valley Association Continued to undertake schools Expo forums and visits to schools to promote services and maintain connections Provided support for establishment and operations of the Emerging Communities Resource Centre at Lakemba Coordinated Council Financial Assistance Strategy measures: Result
Target
Status
Strategy: Enhance community harmony by facilitating a diverse range of innovative projects Multicultural Advisory committee projects implemented (% of identified)
100%
90%
Aboriginal Advisory Group projects implemented (% of identified)
100%
90%
Strategy: Improve meaningful connections between children’s services agencies and schools Proportion of Agency/community meetings attended by our staff (interagency child & family support agencies network child protection schools as community centres)
100%
65%
Strategy: Our Libraries facilitate programs and events which promote the richness of Canterbury’s cultural diversity heritage and identity. Number of "Celebrating Cultures" and Heritage events (year to date)
5
6
Long Term Goal 2.2 Health & Safety Services provided:
Service Standards Met
Parks and reserves maintenance – completed 13,917 jobs Tennis court maintenance – completed 208 jobs Swim school – conducted 9,810 swim school lessons Fitness programs – conducted 2,600 classes Seasonal and casual bookings of parks and facilities – facilitated 1,163 bookings LEMC – supported 3 meetings Dividing fences – 20 shared cost of fencing applications (YTD Total) Safety inspections – 41 safety inspections conducted (YTD Total) Project Sabre – provided 203 fire alarms and batteries to residents Baby capsule hire – hired out 55 baby capsules Community Safety DA assessments – assessed 50 applications Community Services Graffiti Program – cleaned 282 sites Unauthorised building investigations – responded to 248 inquiries Environmental health incidents– investigated 424 incidents Water cooling tower inspections – conducted 36 inspections Food business inspections – conducted 650 inspections Immunisation program – immunised 2,084 children Other regulated business inspections – conducted 135 inspections School parking enforcement – conducted 460 school zone patrols Animal control – conducted 214 animal control inspections, impounded 882 animals including 231 dogs Parking enforcement – inspected 805 parking areas General enforcement – dealt with 2,515 issues
Initiatives completed: Implemented and integrated quarterly in-service training program for Aquatic Centres staff Conducted Royal Life Saving NSW Pool Safety Assessment at Canterbury & Roselands Implemented new Aquatics & Fitness Centres staff uniform and associated policy Conducted annual review and report on aquatic centre operations visitations and community consultation feedback Documented Aquatic Centre plant and equipment inspection procedures Implemented policy, guidelines and procedures on Community Facility Administration Partnered with RLSSA NSW to deliver water safety promotion and education programs Reviewed Aquatic Centre policies including Emergency Closing Customer Exclusion (with Library Services) Membership Unattended Children (also with Library Services) and Water Safety Conducted WimSwim Program in conjunction with NSW Dept of Sport and Recreation in progress Commenced a detailed review of Playgrounds in Canterbury
76 Annual Report 2011-12
Initiatives completed: Continued implementation of the Strategic Recreation Plan Promoted Learn to Swim Schools programs to schools in the area Undertook U Turns 4 Youth project Undertook Operation Bounce Back Conducted Driving Awareness Program Implemented Falls Prevention Program Maintained readiness to respond to major public health incidents Commenced preparation of Risk Management Strategy for the Salt Pan Creek Flood Study Commenced review policies for Regulatory Services including Companion Animals Park Enforcement Street Vending and Backyard Pools Strategy measures: Result
Target
Status
Strategy: Provide safe accessible and attractive aquatic facilities and programs for residents and visitors to the City that support health fitness water safety and recreation Annual attendance - Canterbury Centre
155,000
50,000
Annual attendance - Roselands Centre
165,000
75,000
Number of incidents of non-compliance and vandalism at centres.
4
70
Number of user groups in Senior Citizens Centres and Carrington Centre including casual hirers
68
90
Proportion of eligible groups able to access Senior Citizen and Carrington Centres as needed
100%
90%
Strategy: Facilitate the hire of council parks sportsgrounds and facilities
Strategy: Design fitness and recreation programs that meet the needs of the diverse range of user groups Annual fitness program attendance - Canterbury
22,700
13,000
Annual fitness program attendance per month - Roselands
1,000
1,000
Annual learn to swim enrolments – Canterbury
3,300
2,400
Annual learn to swim enrolments - Roselands
7,500
8,000
Schools swim attendance - Canterbury
750
600
Schools swim attendance - Roselands
1,800
1,500
Strategy: Enhance community health and safety by facilitating a diverse range of innovative projects. Number of reported motor vehicle thefts
111
800
Number of reported robberies
35
400
Number of youth and family counselling sessions
88
90
92%
90%
Community Safety Committee projects implemented
Strategy: Facilitate improvements in environmental health and safety outcomes for the diverse Canterbury community through education and administration of regulatory requirements Water cooling towers requiring re-inspection
0%
10%
Food businesses non-compliant on first inspection
25%
10%
Proportion of other regulated businesses non-compliant on first inspection
3.4%
10%
Stronger Community
Strategy measures: Result
Target
Status
Strategy: Provide community parking patrol and ranger services for the Canterbury community Enforcement responses as a proportion of population
0.40%
1.00%
Long Term Goal 2.3 Access to facilities and services Services provided:
Community bus coordination – facilitated 566 bookings Belmore Youth Resource Centre – 3,622 young people utilising BYRC programs Disability Access inspections – conducted 19 inspections Families NSW meeting support - facilitated 10 interagency meetings Aboriginal advisory group meeting support - facilitated 6 meetings Language aide program – provided 2,934 instances of language aide support Libraries - Lending – lent 735,196 Items from collections Libraries - Collections – 26,453 items acquired Family day care – provided 300 places Occasional care – provided 28 places Outside school hours care - provided 265 places Early childhood intervention service - supported 64 children Early Learning Centres – provided 167 places Library Life Long Learning and Recreation Programs - Children and Young Adults – 17,585 attendees Library Life Long Learning and Recreation Programs - CALD communities – 6,407 attendees Library Life Long Learning and Recreation Programs - Seniors and People with a Disability - 343 attendees to 38 programs Library Life Long Learning and Recreation Programs - General Adult – 1,837 attendees to 165 programs
Initiatives completed: Updated Senior Citizens Centres Policy Implemented non-slip mats for high traffic wet areas in community facilities Continued negotiations to redevelop Riverwood Library through Department of Housing North Riverwood Housing Redevelopment Project Implemented Playgroup in the Park sessions Held Youth at Risk Camp Conducted a range of activities and programs during Youth Week Provided administrative support for the ClubGRANTS Scheme Partnered with employment services to increase opportunities for targeted groups in the community
Service Standards Met
77
78 Annual Report 2011-12
Initiatives completed: Co-ordinated Seniors Week activities Commenced implementing initiatives to enhance Council services to residents with mental health issues and their carers Supported the development of Social Enterprises in the City through the provision of information and the establishment of a Social Enterprise network Established a Library e-book collection Established Bi-lingual community storytime Established partnerships with community organisations to encourage environmental sustainability and deliver environmental education programs Implemented compliance with the Early Years National Quality Framework for early childhood and My Time Our Place for middle childhood Commenced implementing Family History training course
Strategy measures: Result
Target
276
100
Status
Strategy: Plan for and support the delivery of community facilities Total bookings for Belmore Youth Resource Centre
Strategy: Enhance community wellbeing by facilitating a diverse range of innovative projects Disability Access Committee projects implemented (% of scheduled)
100%
90%
Seniors Advisory Committee projects implemented (% of scheduled)
100%
90%
Proportion of applications submitted to Council for financial assistance that are successful
94%
70%
Canterbury Youth Council projects implemented (% of scheduled)
100%
90%
$835,168
$500,000
Funding provided for community projects through the ClubGRANTS program
Strategy: Provide quality care education recreation and intervention services for children aged birth to 12 years that are responsive to the needs of children and families in the local community Services are guided by an educational leader to use the National Early Years Learning Framework as reference for programming and documentation of children’s progress
100%
100%
Strategy: Increase family participation and satisfaction with children’s services Satisfaction measured by exit and annual surveys
100%
90%
Family attendance at meetings and events
234
50
Number of events held
17
5
Strategy: Our Libraries are vibrant and welcoming community hubs attracting high levels of community use Library visits Library visits per capita Customer service and information queries
693,974
780,000
4.85
5.4
125,080
100,000
Strategy: Our Libraries maintain current collections with high appeal to meet the diversity of customer needs Turnover of library stock (ratio) Total loans
5.18
7
735,458
945,000
Stronger Community
Strategy measures: Result
Target
Status
Strategy: Our Libraries promote and support a love of reading recreation and life long learning providing a wide range of high quality programs to meet the evolving needs of our community. Attendance at Library Programs
27,018
25,000
Number of events and programmed activities across the library service
1,464
1240
79
SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT
82. Highlights
The City of Canterbury strives to ensure a healthy, sustainable and improving environment in the City area. We achieve this through a range of strategies. These include community-based environmental activities, the integration of environmental management goals into all aspects of our operations and the administration and enforcement of environmental controls and regulations to ensure that economic development is balanced against the need to protect and enhance the environmental values of the City.
Our Environment initiatives are structured around the four long term goals and corresponding outcomes listed in the Community Strategic Plan which related to environmental outcomes. These include: •
Our City is green, with street gardens and trees planted and maintained
•
Our City is pedestrian- and bike-friendly, with well maintained footpaths and bike paths connected across the City through town centres, streets and parks
•
Energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from our activities are reduced
•
Water consumption from our activities is reduced
•
Waste from our homes and businesses is minimised through resource recovery
•
Water quality and aquatic habitat in our City is improved – we have a clean Cooks River system
•
Biodiversity is enhanced and protected
•
Air quality is improved
•
People in our community are aware and actively support protection of our natural environment
There are two main water ways in the City of Canterbury – the Cooks River and its tributaries (Cups and Saucer Creek and Wolli Creek), and Salt Pan Creek which flows into the Georges River. The Cooks River catchment area is highly urbanised, with one of the highest population densities in NSW, encompassing 100 km2 and 13 local government areas. The City of Canterbury makes up about 24% of the Cooks River catchment. There is no more important environmental issue in our City than the health and viability of the Cooks River System. The City of Canterbury has participated for many years in a variety of programs to address the sustainability of this key waterway. We work with a variety of agencies, Councils, government departments and community organisations to promote a healthy and active river. As a Council we spend considerable resources on our waterways: we have constructed the Cup and Saucer Creek Wetlands and installed a range of Gross Pollutant Traps (GPTs) to capture containers and other rubbish before they reach the Cooks River System. We continually seek funds for the installation of new GPTs and devote budget resources to their maintenance. This year we also carried out RiverScience Ecological monitoring of Cook River
Healthy Environment
Cooks River, Hurlstone Park
estuary; conducted a research project on Bioretention basin at Johnston St, Earlwood data collection and analysis with Macquarie University and SMCMA; monitored the Fish Ladder at Wolli Creek, Turrella Reserve; maintained 10 stormwater management structures; and continued our rolling program of Environmental Audits of industrial and commercial premises. 114 businesses were audited by our Environmental Health Unit to ensure compliance with regulations and legislation to prevent environmental incidents, especially stormwater pollution. We also completed the installation of rainwater tanks to reduce dependence upon potable water, and plumbed them into the amenities, at a number of community buildings including Ashbury, Belmore, and Earlwood Senior Citizens’ Centres, and Riverwood Community Centre and Lakemba Library; and reused rainwater from the tanks installed at the Depot which harvested 809 000 kL of water which was used for truck washing and irrigation of sports fields, saving potable water.
Container Deposit Scheme One of the key issues we face is pollution in the Cooks River, in particular beverage containers including PET and other bottles. Whilst our GPTs are effective in minimising the amount of rubbish entering the Cooks River, more needs to be done, and during Clean Up days, PET and other bottles are among the main items collected. This year, in conjunction with the Cooks River Alliance, in which the Mayor of the City of Canterbury is also the Chair of the Alliance, we campaigned for the introduction of a Container Deposit Scheme in New South Wales. South Australia has had a successful Container Deposit Scheme in place since 1977 and the Northern Territory also enacted Legislation to commence their own scheme, known as the “Cash for Containers” Scheme which came into effect in January of this year, imposing a 10c deposit. Worldwide there are successful schemes in operation in parts of Europe, the USA and Canada.
A Container Deposit Scheme has a number of key benefits: most obviously, as a litter management program it cleans the environment of a very obvious pollutant and potentially saves many thousands of dollars in clean up costs for local Councils; it benefits the environment and protects wildlife; it creates a number of new jobs involved in the collection of the containers and finally it provides a wide range of educational, community, sporting and cultural groups with the opportunity to raise funds through the direct collection and return of these containers. There have been a range of investigations, both at a State and National level to explore the opportunities to implement a national uniform scheme, with no clear outcome. At a local government level, Councils through the Annual NSW Local Government Conference have unanimously supported the notion of a Container Deposit Scheme over a long period of time and continue to lobby this position wherever appropriate. With this current situation in mind, the City of Canterbury recently partnered with the Cooks River Valley Association and Marrickville Council on a community event which provided a cash incentive of 10cents for containers which were deposited on the day. The event attracted strong community support, local business sponsorship and collected more than 1000 plastic bottles on the day. This event demonstrated the ease in which a container deposit scheme can be implemented, and the groundswell of support there is for it in our community. A container deposit scheme would benefit our community by removing much of the visible litter which pollutes our waterways and harms our wildlife, improving the health of the Cooks River catchment for the enjoyment of its’ half million residents.
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Cooks River Alliance In July 2011 the City of Canterbury joined seven other Cooks River catchment councils (Ashfield, Bankstown, City of Sydney, Hurstville, Marrickville, Rockdale and Strathfield councils) to sign a memorandum of understanding for the sustainable management of the Cooks River. The Alliance will guide Canterbury, and each participating council, to meet the objectives of environmental management with a focus on water quality and biodiversity improvement in the Cooks River Catchment. The Cooks River runs through southwestern Sydney, receiving rainfall run off from 13 local government areas, and over the last 200 years, has been degraded through vegetation removal, artificial channel modification, urban development and use as a drain for industrial and domestic waste, and stormwater. The Alliance will address these complex environmental problems and will provide leadership, drive change and ensure a coordinated approach to the implementation of an integrated plan for the natural resource management of the Cooks River Catchment. In addition, the Cooks River Alliance will provide leadership for water sensitive urban design construction projects, community engagement, biodiversity conservation, and riverbank and riparian zone restoration. The Cooks River Alliance builds on the proven track record of the Cooks River Foreshores Working Group (CRFWG) and its highly successful OurRiver project, which worked collaboratively with local communities to reduce pollution, develop sustainable water sources and create waterwise communities. With the conclusion of the threeyear OurRiver project funded by the NSW Environmental Trust’s Urban Sustainability Program, member councils have signed a memorandum of understanding for the Cooks River Alliance. Restoring and preserving the environment is not an easy task, however a continued coordinated effort through the Cooks River Alliance will enable us to make real and long lasting improvements to restore the health of the Cooks River.
Biodiversity Enhancement of biodiversity through environmental rehabilitation and restoration projects and new revegetated areas in our City is a priority for Council. We are increasing the total area across the City that is dedicated to native revegetation and natural areas increasing environmental protection and enhancing our local environment. We have
engaged environmental consultants to conduct a fauna study and community consultation as part of the preparation of a biodiversity strategy for the City of Canterbury. Consultation includes a community reference group and the wider community through visiting bushcare groups, meetings, presence at community events, and an online survey. Our increased area of revegetation has improved the biodiversity values of the Campsie Remnant bushland and natural corridor connectivity. Biodiversity Tours and Train-the-Trainer program - In partnership with the NSW Ethnic Communities Council’s team of Bilingual Sustainability Educators, 10 Biodiversity Tours were run with 186 participants. Tours took Arabic and Greek, Chinese-speaking, local residents to explore local, natural places like Riverwood Wetlands, Wolli Creek, Cup and Saucer Creek and Ewen Park, along the Cooks River. Council’s Biodiversity Officer developed and ran a ‘Train the Trainer’ workshop for the Ethnic Communities Council Bilingual Educators. The workshop covered how to run a biodiversity tour, focusing on some of our best wetlands, rivers and bush pockets in the local area. Our Biodiversity Officer included training to identify and talk about native flora and fauna species, and also weed management. This training was documented as a video resource for other councils: www.vimeo.com/saveprogram Biodiversity Photo Competition and Celebration Day - As a result of the very popular and successful Biodiversity Tours, the Ethnic Communities Council, with support from Council and SAVE Program, coordinated the Biodiversity Photo Competition. Local residents were encouraged to photograph their favourite natural place in the Canterbury local government area. Fifty entries were received and the Biodiversity Celebration Day held to display the ten Finalists and announce the winner. Over 80 people attended the celebration event and enjoyed interactive, native animal displays, music and entertainment. Evaluation conducted at the Celebration Day found that over 95% of attendees had learnt something new about our local environment. The ten finalist photographs were displayed in a travelling exhibition through our four libraries from April to July 2012.
Cup and Saucer Creek Wetland Cup and Saucer Creek Wetland, a joint project between Sydney Water, the Sydney Metropolitan CMA and the City of Canterbury was handed over to Council. The Cup and Saucer Creek Wetland is another vital step to making improvements in water quality entering the Cooks River through Cup & Saucer Creek. The wetland plays an important role in environmental education, as well as providing a service for the river, and a lovely place to come and enjoy and are a great addition to our open space and provides important habitat for native flora and fauna. The City of Canterbury along with neighbouring councils in partnership with our community has been working together for many years to make improvements to the Cooks River and our open space corridor along the river. The Friends of Cup and Saucer Wetland have met and conducted working bees throughout the year to clean and maintain the wetlands. These wetlands are one of many projects which we are working on, to restore and clean up the Cooks River. This year we installed interpretation signage at Campsie Remnant Bushland and Cup & Saucer Creek Wetland and carried out RiverHealth monitoring at Cup & Saucer Creek Wetland with community volunteers. Future works will include riverbank naturalisation works here at Heynes Reserve.
86 Annual Report 2011-12
Gough Whitlam Saltmarsh This year work continued to rid Gough Whitlam Saltmarsh of invasive weeds and plant new vegetation. Saltmarshes across Sydney are under threat of weed invasion and though weeds may seem like a small problem, they can have extremely damaging effects on our environment and our valuable saltmarshes. Invasive weeds out-compete the saltmarsh species they will threaten the biodiversity of this important area that provides a rare and important habitat for migratory birds, fish, crabs and molluscs. The saltmarsh was created as part of project run by Council and Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority to re-instate the saltmarsh areas which were once a major feature of the landscape and are now an endangered ecological environment. An important aspect of the success of this project is the ongoing maintenance of invasive and exotic weeds. Council organised a number of ‘Working Bees’ aimed at controlling these weeds and would like you to take part in it any way you can to help remove trees and weeds, plant native vegetation and monitor and maintain the Gough Whitlam Saltmarsh. We have been successful in recruiting volunteers to assist in our work to ensure that this valuable eco-system continues to play its important role in our local environment.
Smart Biz Our business community are actively improving the environmental sustainability of their operations, plus customers are placing a greater emphasis on businesses to reduce their environmental footprint and prove their green credentials, as well as offering value for money. To recognise these efforts, we established Smart Biz an innovative program designed to help small-to-medium sized businesses in the broader concept of sustainability, including their environmental, social and economic considerations. The program provides participating businesses with the tools, resources and support to use fewer resources such as water and energy, and in doing so, help reduce overheads and improve profitability. In addition, the program supports and inspires participating businesses to create less waste, by recycling and reusing materials which would otherwise end up in landfill sites. The program is easy to join and completely free - however participating businesses must commit to working towards sustainable actions under one or more of the four themes of the program: water, energy, waste and community connections.
Smart Biz works towards developing a plan that will help businesses achieve their respective targets, with a Council Officer supporting participating businesses to help identify new technological solutions and better processes to save energy, water and reduce waste. Through this program, eligible businesses that use between 80,000 litres and 100,000 litres of water per day are also eligible for a Sydney Waterfunded, water use assessment and financial support to retrofit to reduce their water use. Smart Biz also established the Sustainable Business Award, a new category in the 2011 Local Business Awards, to recognise and celebrate the sustainability achievements of our local business community. In its inaugural year, there were strong nominations for the 2011 Sustainable Business Award. Barbehire of Punchbowl was awarded the first ever Sustainable Business Award for the City of Canterbury, at the Local Business Awards. Barbehire have been providing spit roast and barbecue catering services in the area for over 30 years. They impressed the judges with the actions of their Management and their staff to save energy and reduce waste. To save energy Barbehire staff switch off their office equipment to eliminate ‘stand by’ power and use a ceiling fan instead of air conditioning. The majority of their marketing and communication with customers is done electronically, to avoid excessive printing and paper use. Waste created by parties and events is a major sustainability issue that Barbehire have tackled by providing reusable cutlery and plates instead of disposable, plastic plates and cups. Drinks are provided in recyclable packaging and Barbehire staff provide separate recycling bins to encourage party guests to recycle their glass bottles and aluminium cans. Food waste is minimised by taking care not to over cater and diverted from landfill by giving leftovers to the hosts and scraps are composted. Barbehire have also invested in a rainwater tank, which saved 14 000 litres of water last year, to supply their wash bay. They have also reduced their power bills by installing a 10kW solar system on their roof. Social sustainability is just as important as environmental sustainability and Barbehire’s contribution to the environment impressed the award judges. Barbehire have also provided mentoring through Mission Australia, provided work experience for local school students and in-kind donations to schools and community groups. They have also been a long time supporter of Clean Up Australia Day. Barbehire is just one example of our local business community doing their part for our environment by employing sustainable practices in their business.
Healthy Environment
Community Care
SAVE Program
Our community is proactive in notifying Council of water pollution incidents and this assists Council to respond accordingly. The CREW program has undergone a restructure during 2011 and this has affected the total amount of rubbish collected. Stormwater management structures are located across the local government area. The tonnes of material collected has increased between 2009/10 and 2010/11, as three new structures were installed.
(Sustainability Action Values Everyone)
There has been a significant increase in the number of volunteer hours dedicated to working on environmental projects. This is most likely due to a combination of positive factors: the establishment of two new bush regeneration sites, an increase number of individuals volunteering, and an increase in the number of working bee dates and opportunities to volunteer. Community workshops are run on a variety of topics: energy and water saving, gardening, natural cleaning, smart shopping, recycling, composting and worm-farming, biodiversity, birdscaping, weed management and bicycle skills. Workshops are well-attended by the community, demonstrating community interest in living more sustainability. This year we established two new bush-care groups at Gough Whitlam Saltmarsh and Cup and Saucer Creek Wetland, and held two volunteer training days on saltmarsh habitat and bushcare. A partnership was formed with Canterbury City Community Centre Establishment of the Community Bike Shed project, with local residents repairing old, unwanted bicycles and distributing them to disadvantage people in our local community. We successful delivery of SAVE Program, engaging nearly 1000 people in seven projects. We supported new community group, Environment@Lakemba, who are working to engage their local community to reduce littering in parks, streets and Lakemba Town Centre. Continued support for the work of the Cooks River Valley Association, Mudcrabs and the Wolli Creek Preservation Society. These groups have been vocal advocates of the local environment in the community by supporting conservation efforts, campaigning for a national Container Deposit Scheme; and against extension of the M5 motorway through Wolli Creek.
The City of Canterbury partnered in the SAVE Program (Sustainability Action Values Everyone) a collaborative partnership between City of Sydney, Marrickville Council, Randwick City Council, the City of Canterbury and Housing NSW supported by the New South Wales Government through its Environmental Trust. The program delivered sustainability projects to low income, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities. The program aimed to: •
build capacity and knowledge around environmental and sustainability issues in the community, and
•
build the capacity of the partner organisation to work in collaboration and deliver environmental sustainability projects to these communities.
Over a three year period, to July 2012, this $1.75 million program worked with more than 50 organisations to develop and deliver 28 integrated environmental projects across the four council areas. SAVE contributed to building capacity and knowledge around environmental and sustainability issues in our community. It also supported partner organisations to work collaboratively to deliver environmental sustainability projects to the communities.
Sustainability on a Shoestring A pilot project of SAVE Delivered in partnership with Metro Community Housing, Sustainability on a Shoestring (SoS) aimed to help low income households to reduce their energy consumption through no or low-cost actions. Over 8 months, a combination of workshops, informal meetings and mentoring was used to engage 11 participants (out of 15 who started the project). Participants learnt about gardening, water conservation, recycling and waste minimisation. The primary focus was saving energy at home. Practical actions like turning off appliances and lights when not in use, short showers and
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washing in cold water saw some participants decrease their bills by 20-40% over the course of the project. A Toolkit has been developed to assist other affordable housing providers to help their tenants reduce their power bills and increase their understanding of environmental sustainability.
Lakemba Community Garden In partnership with Canterbury City Community Centre, a community garden was established in Jubilee Reserve in Lakemba. To support the new garden, ten workshops were run on organic gardening, composting, natural pest management, crop rotation and water wise gardening. Monthly working bees bring all members and ‘Friends of the Garden’ together. There are 30 active plots and a waiting list of local residents, interested in belonging to the garden.
80% of members felt more confident with bicycle repair skills, than when they started. Community Bike Shed is about meeting new people and making new friends, while contributing to the local community.
Sustainability on a Shoestring – Riverwood With Riverwood Community Centre, a series of Information Carnivals were held in Rossmore Avenue, Endeavor and Kentucky Place, Riverwood, to engage local residents in decision-making around options of environmental projects that could be undertaken in their local area.
Nearly 90% of the participants at the garden workshops indicated that their knowledge about the environment has increased as a result of their involvement in the Garden. As a result of participation, there is an increased interest in other local environmental issues like reducing litter and increasing recycling.
As a result, a second series of Sustainability on a Shoestring was delivered in partnership with Keep Australia Beautiful and with support from the Royal Botanic Gardens’ Community Greening project. Over 30 people participated in eight workshops and two sustainability tours – all delivered in English and Chinese. Workshops focused on sustainable gardening but included important education about reducing power use at home to save money on power bills. At the end of the project, 11 portable garden beds were installed for participants to grow their own herbs and vegetables at home.
Community Bike Shed
Transport Alternatives
Community Bike Shed is run out of the Canterbury Men’s Shed (in Campsie) and is a partnership project of Canterbury City Community Centre and Council. The project aimed to improve access and participation in cycling, as a form of physical activity and sustainable transport. Old, unwanted and broken bicycles (and parts) are donated by the broader community and repaired by Community Bike Shed members. The repaired bicycles are distributed by local organisations to their communities.
Our city is becoming increasingly concerned with the impact we each make on our community and our environment. We have seen that an increase in use of cars and decreasing use of public transport as a mode of transport to work has contributed to increasing congestion, and indicates that community outcomes are not being achieved. We actively promote alternative forms of transport, particularly cycling as mode of transport for people to get to their destinations. We provide cycling education through practical workshops to encourage more people to use bicycles, and we have an extensive network of footpaths and shared cycle paths across the City connecting our town centres, streets and parks. We regularly conduct promotion of active transport such as walking and cycling across the City, through participation in the GreenWay project to encourage uptake of active transport options in the corridor between the Cooks River cycleway and Iron Cove, in partnership with Marrickville, Leichhardt and Ashfield Councils. We continue to distribute cycling safety information and cycleway maps at community
The Community Bike Shed members have contributed over 500 volunteer hours to repair 28 bicycles that have been passed onto to people in the community who cannot afford them. Bicycle maintenance and cycling skills workshops were also run for over 40 participants – most of whom received a repaired bicycle from the project. Community Bike Shed is more than about repairing bicycles. Members teach and help each other to learn new skills – over
Healthy Environment
events, such as Australia Day and CARES Open Day (October 2011), and through visits to 15 primary schools. Through the Sustainable Schools Grants Scheme we supported two local primary schools to run a ‘build a bicycle’ project with their students. Our Seniors’ Week Community Bike Ride attracted nearly 20 participants who enjoyed a cycle along the Cooks River in March 2012. Installation of signage along the Cooks River shared footpath, supported by the Cooks River Alliance, has made the ride more interactive with point-ofinterest and location information to users. Our review and implementation of the new State Transit bus routes and metro bus times tables has greatly assisted residents link to transport and hubs. We have supported the Kingsgrove to Revesby Quadruplication Project expansion of the East Hills train line for increased capacity and number of express trains to the line.
impact. Our presenters from Canterbury City Council’s Environmental and Sustainability Advisory Committee and Beyond Zero Emissions also answered questions relating to: Compensation – who and how will that work? what this carbon tax isn’t (myth busting); what is the increase to typical grocery bucket? And, how to know if prices are being increased unfairly. Australia is one of the first countries to introduce a Carbon Pollution Pricing scheme and whilst there has been a lot of media attention about this many people still don’t know what it means to them and how they will be personally affected. The volunteer speaker from Beyond Zero Emissions complemented the information about the carbon price by speaking about the latest innovations in renewable energy and clean technology and there was a solar thermal power plant model on display for people to see future capabilities in energy.
Energy
Sustainable Schools Awards
The debate and subsequent introduction of the Carbon Tax has made residents and businesses more aware of their energy consumption and ways to reduce that level and use alternate forms of energy. To inform people of power saving initiatives, we delivered over 10 workshops and information on energy efficiency to the general public, including the SAVE Program specifically targeting low income households, provided OEH Save Power Kits, via the libraries, to community and promoted the NSW Government’s Home Power Savings and the OEH Home Saver Rebates Programs, with an uptake of over 2400 households since June 2010. Promotion of the Fridge Buyback, resulted in 154 residents in 2011-12 getting rid of their second fridge. Over 670 fridges have been collected from Canterbury residents since the program began, helping residents reduce their energy bill and save money. We also promoted NSW Government’s Energy Efficiency for Small Business program, through Council’s Smart Biz sustainable business program to support local businesses improve energy efficiency, with 35 businesses participating in 2011-12. We have implemented a carbon management system to accurately monitor Council’s energy, water, and paper consumption and conducted energy audits at Council’s top energy consuming facilities.
This year we introduced a Sustainable Schools Awards Program, to give schools and their students due recognition for implementing environmental and sustainable initiatives. The quality of the applications was very high with variety of initiatives which have been implemented in local schools and enthusiasm displayed by students. An important element of the application was to involve students in the writing of the application. Based on the number and type of environmental initiatives taken, applications were categorized into either:
Our Carbon Pricing information sessions were instrumental is demystifying beliefs and clarify issues. Our presenters focused on: the purpose of the carbon tax; an overview of how it works; what this means for householders; what this means for businesses and what you can do to reduce the
•
Sustainability Starters - schools starting out in sustainability;
•
Sustainability Stars - schools on their way to sustainability; or
•
Sustainability Champions - schools that are at an advanced stage of environmental sustainability.
Some of the initiatives taken by schools include: installing rainwater tanks, automatic light switches, dual flush toilets, water saving taps and recycle paper; learning about water conservation in the classroom; carrying out a waste audit; establishing a native or produce garden; worm farming; raising money for a vegetable garden through a Mufti Day and Lucky Dip; taken part in a Clever Climate Energy Savers Project; established a school environmental management plan; establishment of the ‘Greening Machines’ student environment group, they set up some garden beds on completely concreted school grounds with the help of a
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90 Annual Report 2011-12
donation from Bunnings, and a visit from Costa the gardener; Earth Watchers; participated in energy saving competitions; banned plastic bags in their canteen; collect electronic waste; and provides bike stands to encourage students to ride to school. Local school children are taking an active interest in our environment and being sustainability champions which is evident by all these initiatives.
Schools Poster Competition Recycling – Put it in the right bin Another great schools initiative we conduct is our annual schools poster competition. For 18 years, the City of Canterbury has hosted an annual Schools Poster Competition, to support our environmental initiatives through community education and as an opportunity for local children to display their creativity and environmental awareness. This year, we renamed the competition in memory of the late Chris Bartlett - a dedicated member of our community who was a co-founder of the MUDCRABS: Cooks River Eco Volunteers, amongst other local environmental community groups. Chris was inspirational and had a genuine enthusiasm for the protection of the environment and was an outstanding example of how each and every one of us can make a difference to our neighbourhood, community and city of Canterbury. His passion was clearly evident in the creativity and environmental awareness expressed in the posters which were submitted as part of this year’s competition. The theme of this year’s poster competition was ‘Recycling – Put it in the right bin’ and highlighted the importance of reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill and outlined the environmental benefits provided by our recycling service. The posters were spectacular and of such a high standard. Some students used canvas backings, one created a snakes and ladders board game relating to waste, while another created a 3D poster with 3 different lid-bins and stuck the right material in each bin. Our schools poster competition continues to demonstrate how we can all do our part to reduce our impact on the environment. The ideas created this year are inspiring and they highlight the level of interest in our schools and our community about the environment and waste minimisation. The theme: ‘Recycling – Put it in the right bin’ is a message we should all learn. Last year, approximately 5,000 tonnes (or 15%) of the waste placed in the red lid garbage bins and sent
to landfill could have been diverted and recycled. When these items are placed in the wrong bin they cannot be recovered, recycled or reused and end up buried in the ground. The importance of recovering resources through recycling cannot be underestimated - recycling just one aluminium can will save enough power to run a television for three hours. Based on this figure if every one of the 45,000 households in the City of Canterbury prevented just one aluminium can from going to landfill, collectively we would save enough energy to power that very same television for 15 years. This demonstrates how small actions at home can have huge environmental benefits.
New Waste Collection Service This year we entered into a new waste collection contract with Transpacific Cleanaway. This new and improved waste collection service commenced across our City on 27 February 2011. It is a state-of-the-art waste collection service with environmentally friendly trucks which help reduce driver injury and are less noisy. As part of the service, Cleanaway will be providing a bin valet to unit blocks across our City so that on-site managers and residents no longer have to wheel bins in and out for collection. In conjunction with the new collection we conducted a promotional and education campaign for people to Waste Less, Recycle Right, Make the Future Bright. This campaign was designed to encourage residents to think differently about waste and recycling to maximise the service’s potential. Recycling is one of the best ways for local residents to have a positive impact on the world in which they live. In 2011 we collected 32,954 tonnes of rubbish, 12,963 tonnes of recycling, 10,480 tonnes of garden vegetation. By using the yellow recycling bins and green garden vegetation bins correctly we managed to divert 42% of our waste from landfill, but we recognise that we can do more. Last year alone, 15 % of all rubbish put in the red rubbish bins could have been recycled, so it is time to turn that figure around, the Mayor said. The City of Canterbury has also combined with Cleanaway’s education team to run the kNOw Waste primary school education program to ensure our youngest generation knows the importance of recycling. Cleanaway’s education team have visited a number of local primary schools and provided workshops on waste, recycling and litter prevention. Council also has a full time resource recovery officer to help monitor the correct use of recycling bins in the area and help to reduce contamination in the material we collect. Our three-bin waste
Healthy Environment
collection system (red – for general garbage, yellow – for recyclables and green – for garden waste) has annually reduced the amount of rubbish being sent to landfill. By using the yellow recycling bins and green garden vegetation bins correctly we have managed to divert 42% of our waste from landfill. The volume of material diverted from landfill continues to increase, with a peak in total quantity diverted from landfill of 24,234 tonnes in 2011-2012. Responsible management of the waste generated in our community is essential to ensure a healthy environment and reduce the cost of disposal. Some of the highlights for 2011-12 include: •
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Clean Up Australia Day Clean Up Australia Day is the perfect opportunity for local residents and businesses to help us make a difference to our local environment. Since its inception, Clean Up Australia Day has helped remove tonnes of rubbish across the City of Canterbury as dedicated residents help clean up. Last year, hundreds of volunteers joined Team Clean Up and collected 7.16 tonnes of rubbish from 20 Clean Up sites across the City of Canterbury. This year we had 30 registered sites and 14 schools which shows that our community can pull together and make a real difference to the local environment.
Approximately 19 tonnes of eWaste was recycled through Council’s annual collection, with 250 households utilising the service.
The City of Canterbury Clean Up Australia Day public sites were at: •
Wortley Lane, Belmore
Collection and treatment of 20 tonnes of harmful chemicals through the Chemical Cleanout, with 567 households participating.
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Parry Park, Punchbowl Road, Lakemba
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Girrahween Park, Sutton Ave, Earlwood
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Garden vegetation collected has peaked at 11,625 tonnes in 2011-2012.
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Punchbowl Park, Violet St, Punchbowl
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Lakemba Shops, Railway Parade, Lakemba
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The Schools Education Program provided 35 education sessions at seven local primary schools, with over 2,000 students learning about waste, recycling and sustainability.
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Punchbowl Baptist Church, Arthur St, Punchbowl
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Croydon Lane, Lakemba
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St Mary Mackillop Reserve, Canterbury Rd, Canterbury
National Recycling Week was supported through a public information stall at the Campsie Centre. This included the use of bilingual educators to highlight the benefits of recycling and promote upcoming events.
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Browns Reserve, Second Ave, Croydon Park
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Ewen Park, Tennant Parade, Hurlstone Park
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McDonalds Lakemba, Canterbury Rd, Lakemba
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Clean Up Australia Day was a great success with 30 sites registered, collecting litter from local parks the and along the Cooks River.
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SJ Harrison Reserve, Bray St, Earlwood
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Residents discovered what happens to their recycling as part of three tours of a Materials Recycling Facility during the 2011-2012 period.
State of the Environment Report
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We continue to reduce the amount of litter that enters local waterways through our street cleaning program. This includes a seven day a week program in town centres and a weekly schedule for residential streets.
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The City of Canterbury produces an annual State of the Environment (SoE) report which details our progress in implementing Council’s Community Strategic Plan and City Plan. The full SoE report is attached as an appendix to this Annual Report.
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92. PRIORITY PROJECTS
Priority project Installing stormwater harvesting at Canterbury Park and irrigation for Blick and Campbell Ovals Installing a Gross Pollutant Trap at the end of Beamish Street to collect litter from Campsie Town Centre
Status Rainwater storage at Canterbury Park has been installed, and a storage tank has been installed for Blick and Campbell Ovals, but work on irrigation has yet to be completed.
Completed.
Installing solar power on several community buildings
Solar power for Earlwood Senior Citizens Centre and Lakemba Library has been installed.
Commencing advice and support to local businesses in saving money through sustainable business practices
The Smart Biz program launched, and new Environmental Category successfully included in the Small Business Awards held in 2011. This category will continue in 2012. In addition a grant application has been made to the Environmental Trust for a program to support CALD businesses in sustainable practices.
Enhancing biodiversity through the Turrella Creek Restoration Project and the Canterbury Fauna Study
Interpretive Signage and an information brochure for Campsie Remnant has been developed and installed on site, with a tour held as part of Biodiversity Month in September. Interpretive signage has been installed at the Cup & Saucer Creek Wetland and an additional sign is being developed for the Adopt a Patch site at Rosedale Reserve. A consultant has been engaged to undertake and prepare the Biodiversity Strategy, including a Fauna Study. A community reference group has been established, but due to extended periods of rain the Fauna Study has been delayed by 3 months and is now due October 2012.
93. PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES Long Term Goal 3.1 Sustainable urban development Services provided:
Traffic committee meetings - supported 10 meetings Traffic management designs – prepared 14 designs Traffic investigations – completed 345 investigations Road safety advisory committee - supported 2 meetings Road safety action plan implementation – coordinated 47 programs Road safety data reporting - prepared 2 reports Street sign replacement - installed 221 signs as part of the replacement program, installed 86 additional street safety or information signs Civil infrastructure maintenance - completed 870 routine maintenance projects Civil infrastructure construction - completed 90 construction projects
Initiatives completed: Prepared procedure for LATM investigations Prepared procedure for assessing an event application Reviewed procedure for assessing temporary road closure applications Undertook CARES Cycling Education Undertook Fleet safety program Supported RTA Statewide Campaigns on road safety Undertook Traffic offenders education program Undertook Drink driving reduction program Undertook Speed reduction program Provided Kindergarten Orientation talks Undertook Choose right buckle right in Canterbury program Undertook Learner driver workshops Undertook Safety outside schools program Completed Senior pedestrian project Undertook Antisocial driving program Commended reviewing procedure for assessing DA applications in relation to road safety Continued to participate in regional and state programs to reduce community impacts on air quality Promoted cycling through a series of workshops on bicycle maintenance and cycling instruction
Service Standards Met
94 Annual Report 2011-12
Strategy measures: Result
Target
Status
Strategy: Develop and encourage an accessible transport network that caters for the needs of pedestrians, cyclists public transport and motor vehicle users. Number of cycling workshops held.
3
1
Long Term Goal 3.2 Responsible use of resources Services provided:
Service Standards Met
Waste contract management - provided 750,000 rubbish recycling and garden vegetation services Waste audit and education – responded to 43 requests for education Education materials - prepared 12 new brochures Waste information stalls - provided waste information stalls at 4events Home composting sessions - held 6 home composting courses Customer requests – responded to 7,055 enquiries (YTD Total)
Initiatives completed: Promoted government rebates and outreach education activities to increase uptake of energy saving initiatives and greenhouse gas reduction in the community (Community) Circulated quarterly information on energy gas and water consumption is to relevant business units including comments on trends (Council) Undertook energy audit and reviewed Energy Saving Action Plan (Council) Promote government rebates and outreach education activities to increase uptake of water saving initiatives in the community. (Community) Implement actions from the Water Saving Action Plan and Waste & Sustainability Action Plan (Council) Contributed to SSROC Waste Management working group projects Coordinated commencement of new rubbish garden vegetation and recycling collection and disposal contracts Coordinated the Household Chemical Collection Program in the City Conducted School Environment Poster Competition Coordinated the Clean Up Australia Day Program in the City Coordinated the Schools Waste Education Program Complete Conducted National Recycling Week Competition and appropriate displays in strategic locations Conducted waste facilities inspection tours for the public quarterly Continued investigations into Sustainable Waste and Resource capture collection processing and disposal Continued development of dumped rubbish strategy Distributed waste education materials in a timely way to optimise learning impact Reviewed waste education materials and prepare materials for redistribution to residents to coincide with introduction of new waste contracts Implemented Sustainability Action Plan in relation to water harvesting and conservation. Implemented WSUD project developed for the Ashbury sub-catchment. Prepared a policy on Ecologically Sustainable Development Prepared an Environmental Management Policy and Guidelines Provided quarterly information on electricity gas and water consumption to relevant business units Supported the Environmental and Sustainability Advisory Committee
Healthy Environment
Strategy measures: Result
Target
Status
Strategy: Encourage the installation of water conserving technologies and apply Sustainable Urban Water Management principles (SUWM). Rainwater tanks installed at 2 community facilities/buildings.
4
2
Strategy: Plan for provide and manage appropriate and efficient contracted rubbish recycling and garden vegetation collection disposal and processing services Instances of valid dissatisfaction with service
36
50
Strategy: Promote and support the effective delivery of the waste collection services and waste minimisation and resource capture (recycling) in the community to the benefit of the environment Rubbish diversion rate
39%
40%
Long Term Goal 3.3 Healthy natural environment Services provided:
Service Standards Met
Leachate management - treated 4,000 megalitres of leachate at Salt Pan Creek Gully pit cleaning - cleaned 1,957 gully pits Environmental news articles - prepared 75 environmental news articles Environmental grants – administered 13 grant programs
Initiatives completed: Participated in regional projects that improve water quality in our waterways Continued river health monitoring programs (Riverscience) including monitoring of all water quality devices Provided financial support and participate in the regional Cooks River Alliance Established the Friends of Salt Marsh group to assist in maintenance & monitoring of salt marsh areas Implemented the Regional Weeds Action Plan Provided education workshops and materials on our native and introduced species to both council and the community Continue the City’s community bushcare and Adopt a Patch program Commenced preparing a Biodiversity Strategy Encouraged schools to participate in Teacher’s Sustainability Network and educational opportunities provided by council supporting schools in the development and implementation of School Environmental Management Plans and community gardens Provided workshops and outreach activities to the community which assist with understanding sustainability and implementing sustainable initiatives in their own homes Developed promoted interpretative signage for biodiversity and water improvement programs Developed educational materials for Campsie Bushland Strategy measures: Result
Target
Strategy: Provide information and sustainability education to the community and council staff Number of workshops/events held promoting sustainability.
19
10
Produce environmental news articles for Council publications regularly and on time.
19
12
Status
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STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP
Cr Brian Robson Mayor
98. END OF TERM REPORT
In 2010 we embarked on an extensive community engagement program asking what our community think of the City of Canterbury – what they want it to be and how we can make it better. As part of this program we conducted a range of public forums to ask people their opinions, as well as a survey by telephone, online and face-to-face. The key benefit to understanding our community’s views is the ability to provide or advocate for services projects and programs that respond to community needs and aspirations. The product of this process was our 2011 Community Strategic Plan which outlined what we found from this engagement program about what our community wanted and strategies to address community needs. A key part of the 2011 Community Strategic Plan was a set of Trend Indicators by which we planned to assess progress towards achieving the outcomes our community told us they wanted.
Since that time council has worked on its own and in partnership with State Government agencies, community organisations and interested stakeholders to deliver services, programs and infrastructure to support these strategies. Significant progress has been made. This report, our first End of Term Report, outlines this progress by examining the set of Trend Indicators included in our 2011 Community Strategic Plan.
Action Highlights Some highlights of the activities that have supported this progress have been the improvements to our community facilities. In June 2009 we opened the new Punchbowl Multipurpose Community Centre. Late in 2010 we also completed refurbishments to Lakemba Library and Senior Citizens Centre. In March 2011, we opened a newly constructed community facility at Riverwood – the Morris Iemma Indoor Sports Centre, which is now operated by the YMCA to provide sport, recreation and community programs. This year we completed work on the refurbishment of the Belmore Sports Ground to allow the Canterbury Bulldogs Rugby League team to return to the ground as their base of operations, for training and exhibition games and to support access by other community clubs. In the future we will ensure that the provision of community facilities is considered when new centres are developed – such as is happening at a large new housing development at Riverwood North, and in future developments in Canterbury and Campsie. Other highlights have been the development of the Riverwood Wetlands, Town Centre Improvement projects across all eleven of our town centres, and preparation of a number of important plans and strategies, including a Strategic Recreation Plan, Ageing Strategy, Towards 2032 Economic Development Strategy and Anzac Mall Place Management Strategy, city-wide Local Environmental Plan, and Masterplans for Canterbury Road and Canterbury Town Centre. Our End of Term Report (attached as and Appendix ) is a snapshot of how this work has improved life and work in the City of Canterbury. It will set the scene for the review of our Community Strategic Plan later next financial year and the work of the incoming Council for the next four years.
Strategic Leadership
What is the End of Term Report? The new requirements for Integrated Planning and Reporting in the Local Government Act 1993 include the need to provide a report from the outgoing Council on the implementation and effectiveness of the Community Strategic Plan in achieving its objectives over the past four years. The End of Term Report does this by observing the performance of a series of Trend Indicators. These Trend Indicators were developed to reflect the community outcomes included in the 2011 Community Strategic Plan. In the Plan these community outcomes were grouped by Themes and Long Term Goals, which reflected environmental, social, economic and civic leadership aspects of the needs and aspirations our community expressed when the Plan was developed. As a result the Trend Indicators are also grouped by Theme and Long Term Goal and thus also reflect these aspects. Wherever possible, the emphasis of this report is on the movements in these indicators that enable an assessment of whether progress has been made towards the community outcomes. In some cases, however, there is insufficient data for a trend to be observed. Future editions of the report will seek to establish trends for these indicators. As some indicators are interconnected and need to be considered together, the report provides a summary trend for each Long Term Goal in each Theme. The report also outlines highlights of actions that have been undertaken in the past four years with the intention of achieving the community outcomes. The trend observed provides some indication of whether or not these actions have been successful. In this way the report helps Council and other agencies plan appropriately for the future of the City of Canterbury. There are currently 42 Trend Indicators. Feedback on this report will seek comment on how appropriate these existing Trend Indicators are in assessing progress towards the community outcomes. This will then be used to refine the Trend Indicators that are included in the next Community Strategic Plan.
Summary of Findings The End of Term Report provides detailed information on each of the Trend Indicators. For each there is an introduction to the indicator, a snapshot of the current trend, and a commentary on the trend and the basis for an assessment of the status of that indicator. Action Highlights list key actions that have been undertaken over the past four years with the intention of achieving the community outcomes. There are five status levels: improving, just improving, stable, just deteriorating, and deteriorating. Of the 42 indicators, 11 are improving, 13 are just improving, 11 are stable, three are just deteriorating, and two are deteriorating. Trends could not be observed for two indicators, and these have not been given a status. This is a very good result overall with the bulk (83%) of the indicators being stable or showing some improvement, and only five indicators (12%) showing some deterioration. The results are described in more detail by each Theme below.
Attractive City Attractive streetscapes are just improving, with instances of graffiti and its removal improving; resident satisfaction with City appearance, and dumped rubbish just improving, and street trees planted remaining stable. Balanced urban development is stable, with occupied dwelling types just improving; and housing tenure and open space stable. Prosperous local economy, however, is just deteriorating, with jobs in retail and food industries deteriorating, local jobs just deteriorating, and resident satisfaction with local restaurants stable. Resident views on what the city is known for was not rated.
Stronger Community Embracing diversity is just improving, with the percentage of people who like living in their local area just improving. Volunteering and unpaid care was not rated. Health and safety is also just improving, with the incidence of crime improving (ie. reducing); perceptions of crime, and immunisation just improving; and road crashes and physical activity remaining stable. A highlight is that access to facilities and services is improving, with vocational or higher education qualifications, people attending library programs, and internet access all improving; and the availability and distribution of childcare remaining stable.
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100 Annual Report 2011-12
Sustainable Environment
Service Review Program
Unfortunately, like prosperous local economy, transport alternatives that work is also just deteriorating - the only other long term goal trending in this way. Whilst community perception of transport issues and footpath condition are just improving, road pavement condition is just deteriorating, and mode of transport to work is deteriorating. Responsible use of resources on the other hand is just improving, with energy consumption and waste generation and recycling both just improving. Council and community water consumption has, however, remained stable. The health of our natural environment is also just improving, with areas available to enhance biodiversity, and volunteering in environmental activities both improving; trees planted just improving; and stream water quality, and pollution days and complaints stable.
The residual effects of the Global Financial Crisis are still being felt here at Canterbury. These include a reduction in interest and rate income and an increase in compulsory superannuation contributions and depreciation of assets.
Strategic Leadership Council’s finances remain healthy, with the independent assessment of our financial position remaining stable. It is pleasing to see that engagement with our community is improving, with customer enquiries and website visits improving, and satisfaction with consultation and information just improving. It is also very pleasing to see a strong result in effective governance, with our Governance Health Check assessment, and access to information improving; and satisfaction with council performance just improving. The End of Term Report is a snapshot of how life and work has improved in City of Canterbury over the past four years. It will set the scene for the review of our Community Strategic Plan and the work of the incoming Council for the next four years.
Council has produced a Long Term Financial Plan as well as other documents to satisfy the requirements of the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) Legislation introduced by the State Government in 2009. We have worked hard to manage our expenses and maximise revenue in recent years, however, Council’s long-term financial sustainability depends on our ability to introduce measures that establish a service load that is affordable and efficiently delivered. Through our Service Review Program, which commenced in 2008, we have worked hard to manage our expenses, and maximise revenue in recent years. Reviews of specific services have included: •
childrens’ centres;
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library operations;
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aquatic centres;
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mechanical workshop operations;
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parks and property;
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waste collection;
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street cleaning;
•
tree maintenance;
•
building cleaning.
As a result of these reviews, action we have taken has included: •
implemented changes to collection of waste from litter bins in parks and town centres
•
outsourced golf course operations
•
sold our Trade Waste collection business
•
reduced the number of annual waste calendars printed from 40,000 to 2,000
•
combined After School Care services in Punchbowl and Lakemba
•
introduced Remote Frequency Identification (RFID) checkout for books at our libraries
Strategic Leadership
•
reviewed operating hours at our aquatic centres
•
reduced by half the amount of advertising space used by the weekly council newspaper column.
In a continuation of the Service Review Program, in 2011-12 we have involved managers, supervisors and staff in: •
further reviewing services to identify savings from reducing levels of service, and from streamlining processes
•
further reviewing rates, fees and charges, sources of grant income, and any other potential source of additional revenue
Message from Things we have the General already done y ad re al Manager ve ha e w gs in We have worked Th hard to manage The residual effec our expenses and max ts of the Global Finan imise revenue in Crisis are still bein cial done recent g felt here at Cant s. Here are provingyear our
Im Council
e e include just some of the erbury. Thes manag things we have done: rked hard to ent a reduction in interest incom in rec of eabou enu We have wo e t $3 millio maximise rev gs we n per year and an increase in comthin expenses and pulso e of the ry superannuatio som • just imple are n contributions of mented changes about $2 million years. Here to colle ction per of waste year from litter bins in . parks and town have done: centres; • implemented on of waste w Program changes to golf ectition, In addi coll with course Service Revie d changes to operations; tres;the loss in revenue of abou n ncen $1 tow millio • implemente in parks and t from a lower than • ceased prov expected rate iding a Trade Was course from litter bins nges toincre golfase, and an increase te collection d cha service; in depreciation of million, we are facin • implemente $2 • reduced the collection g a shortfall of $8 million. number of annual operations; waste a Trade Waste ng calen vidi dars pro printed from 40,0 In the coming year • ceased 00 to 2,000; • (201 intro 1-12 duced a Tree Pres ) we te service; $4 ual nwas millio ervation Order ann from additional reve need to find Assessment char the number ofreduction 0; nue or expense ge; 00 to • reduced s. 2,00 In the long term • combined After ted from 40,0 we need to find er Ord Scho anot n calendars prin her ol atio Care $4 serv millio servi n per year. ces in Punchbowl and ed a Tree Pre Lakemba; • introduc • introduced Rem charge; We ices in ote Frequency Iden Assessment have e serv Car work ed hard to manage tification (RFID) checkout d After School our expenses and max for books at our • combine a; imise revenue n emb libraries; • reviewed oper Lak in and rece atio nt owl year tific ating hours at our s. This is Punchb ackn cy Iden owle uen dged and ;appreciat Freq aquatic centres and attem ed Remotehow ries ed. We must, pted to implemen our libra ever • introduc ks at, cont inue boo to t for winter work pool ut closu together to find ways res; aquatic tohou incre (RFID) checko aseour rs at reve nue, • reduced by and terreduce expenses, operatingeven win half the amount wher imp • reviewed e lem of advertising thisent means reduction ted to space used by the attemp s in our levels of service. There week centres and ly coun cil column; are som • sold a number ; esse ing e services it is not of drainage rese advertis pool closures ntial ofprov untwe rves to amo ide, but adjacent landown by half the column;changes must be undertaken inncil ers, whist retaining • reduced such a way as to easement rights. the weekly cou manage the rves to space used by impa ct one our resecom munity. drainag of ber num retaining • sold a owners, whist adjacent land Please do not be threa tened by this prog ts. ram. easement righ We need your participat ion for it to be successful, and More informatio for our n financially sustainab council to remain le. If you have ques tions please spea k to your supervisor or man Jim n Mon tio tague PSM ager, or contact: David Coleman More informa General Manager - 9789 9640 r speak to you David Cuming stions please 9789 9324 If you have que ager, or contact: Sarah Trapla - 9789 man 9662 supervisor or 0 n - 9789 964 David Colema - 9789 9324 David Cuming 9662 9 978 la Sarah Trap
101
Governance Improvement Plan In September 2011 we received a Local Government Managers Australia (LGMA) award for Management Excellence for the Governance Improvement Plan. Our Governance Improvement Plan has been a key driver of subsequent organisation wide projects including a Policy Review Program, Management Planning and Annual Reporting improvements, a Statement of Business Ethics, Organisational Values, Risk Management Program, Complaints Handling, Fraud and Corruption Prevention, Guidelines for Community Engagement, Internal Audit, Legislative Compliance and Performance Management. Our Governance Improvement Plan also provided a solid foundation for Promoting Better Practice Reviews that were undertaken in 2007 and 2011.
Our Governance Improvement Plan was developed as an innovative and structured approach to improving governance across Council. The Plan provides a unique assessment Improving and action planning tool, assigning priorities, timeframes Council and responsibilities. The innovative approach we have used could be easily used by any council willing to undertake the Service Review Prog ram Governance Health Check. The Plan has been in place at Canterbury since 2005 with reviews conducted in 2007 and 2010. Both reviews have highlighted significant improvements in governance since adopting the Plan. The creation of a Governance Improvement Plan has provided clear direction for the whole organisation in relation to our Long Term Goal of Effective Governance, and has provided a means of communicating the outcomes of the Governance Health Check in a meaningful and useful way. The incorporation of Governance Improvement Plan actions in our City Plan has brought integration and alignment of organisational activity and has ensured both accountability and measured improvement.
102 Annual Report 2011-12
Code of Conduct – Position Paper
SSROC Records Management Group
During the year we provided a subsequent submission to the Division of Local Government’s Position Paper on the Review of the Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW.
We have been involved with the SSROC Records group, which meets 4 times a year. In the last 12 months we have been part of a sub group, which has developed an online records training program. This program has been successfully implemented to ensure that all staff are aware of their recordkeeping responsibilities and the need to keep full and accurate records of business transactions. This has helped to promote Strategic Leadership in the organisation.
The Paper proposes a number of changes to the Model Code and our comments related primarily to: political donations, quorum, use of council property or facilities, lobbying, relationship between council officials, meetings with developers, gifts and benefits, contractors and volunteers, complaints, integrity and misuse of the code of conduct process, as well as disciplinary action. This Code of Conduct is an important foundation for a strong ethical culture. It articulates the standards of behaviour expected of councillors and staff by our community and gives us a basis for our decision making process.
National Local Government Customer Service Network. The City of Canterbury has been active participants in the National Local Government Customer Service Network for many years. We have been an integral part of the Executive Committee which organises quarterly seminars, customer focused training and an annual conference for over 108 separate Council members across Australia. This has helped us to monitor trends in customer service and provided us with opportunities to network with other customer service professionals, improving our focus on the services we provide as part of our vision for Stronger Communities.
Integrity and transparency are key principles we aim to promote through our corporate governance area and our Independent Hearing and Assessment Panel (IHAP) is a good example of this. Every aspect of the IHAP is designed to improve transparency, integrity and confidence in our development assessment process. The IHAP provides Council with another level of assessment by independent experts to assist it in its decision making on DAs. The IHAP also provides an opportunity for residents and applicants to present their views and/or concerns about a development application, thus ensuring that their particular issues are fully considered and that the process has been thorough and rigorous. Annually we are also required to review our policy for the payment of expenses and the provision of facilities for the Mayor and all Councillors and this policy was also adopted by Council in December 2011. We are also required to review delegations to the Mayor, Standing Committees and the General Manager within 12 months of a council election. Delegations allow the range and complexity of matters required to be dealt with by council in the course of its day to day business to be discharged effectively and efficiently in between council meetings.
103. RATES & CHARGES WRITTEN OFF
Pensioners Statutory rate and charge rebates granted to eligible pensioners between 1995-96 and 2011-12: Year
Gross Rebate
Government Rebate
Cost to Council
1995-96
$2,393,471
$1,316,096
$1,077,375
1996-97
$2,418,505
$1,333,666
$1,084,839
1997-98
$2,422,260
$1,332,243
$1,090,017
1998-99
$2,438,508
$1,341,179
$1,097,329
1999-00
$2,426,110
$1,334,360
$1,091,750
2000-01
$2,426,999
$1,334,849
$1,092,150
2001-02
$2,449,750
$1,347,363
$1,102,387
2002-03
$2,430,905
$1,336,997
$1,093,907
2003-04
$2,409,911
$1,325,451
$1,084,460
2004-05
$2,371,578
$1,310,264
$1,061,314
2005-06
$2,349,759
$1,290,202
$1,059,557
2006-07
$2,326,092
$1,279,350
$1,046,741
2007-08
$2,350,452
$1,292,749
$1,057,703
2008-09
$2,376,798
$1,307,239
$1,069,559
2009-10
$2,401,126
$1,320,619
$1,086,567
2010-11
$2,419,481
$1,330,714
$1,088,766
2011-2012
$2,419,105
$1,330,507
$1,088,597
Other Rates and Charges Written Off In addition to rate income of $2,419,105 written-off rates levied to pensioners, other rates and charges written-off and abandoned between 1 July 2011 and 30 June 2012 are shown below: Category
2009-10
2010-11
2011-12
Change in land category
$9,771.50
$12,969.55
$4,644.30
$33,934.95
$51,134.05
$28,866.65
$14,298.22
$14,489.35
$12,860.25
$6,402.20
$6,692.55
$6,199.40
$380.00
$365.00
$2,455.95
$16,684.60
$17,960.65
$18,425.75
$735.93
$805.98
$727.40
$82,207.40
$104,417.13
$74,179.70
Land exempt from rates during the year Postponements written-off - Rates - Extra Charges Extra Charges on pensioners’ rates Discounts – heritage properties Rounding and small balances - Rates, domestic waste and extra charges Total
104 Annual Report 2011-12
Contracts The following contracts worth $150,000 or more were awarded during the 2011-12 financial year.
Schedule of Rates Contracts Contract Work
Company
Contract Sum ($)
Ewen Park Mini Soccer Field
KK Civil Engineering
330,340
Peter Moore Field Renovations
The Green Horticultural Group
629,218
Minor Works
KK Civil Engineering
SOR
Minor Works
KJ Civil & Paving
SOR
Minor Works
Sydney Civil Pty Ltd
SOR
Minor Works
Pave-Link Pty Ltd
SOR
Minor Works
Mansour Paving (Aust) Pty Ltd
SOR
Minor Works
Kelbon Project Services
SOR
Minor Works
Garden Growing Solutions Pty Ltd
SOR
Minor Works
Citywide Service Solutions Pty Ltd
SOR
Minor Works
Advanced Arbor Services Pty Ltd
SOR
Minor Works
Sydney Metro Services Pty Ltd
SOR
Minor Works
Mahabir Holdings Pty Ltd
SOR
Rubbish Disposal
Veolia Environmental Services (Australia) Pty Ltd
24,750,000
Clean-up Disposal
Veolia Environmental Services (Australia) Pty Ltd
1,600,500
Dumped Rubbish Disposal
Veolia Environmental Services (Australia) Pty Ltd
1,200,375
Recycling Processing
Visy Paper Pty Ltd
4,139,989
Garden Vegetation Processing
SITA
4,785,000
Clean-Up Collection
Transpacific Cleanaway
2,417,436
Rubbish Collection
Transpacific Cleanaway
17,828,574
Recycling Collection
Transpacific Cleanaway
10,671,817
Garden Vegetation Collection
Transpacific Cleanaway
3,749,439
Litter Collection
Transpacific Cleanaway
2,735,558
Parry Park Entry Facility
North Shore Paving Co Pty Ltd
336 998
Kingsgrove Road – Rehabilitation works
Stateline Asphalt Pty Ltd
283 967
Concrete Road Works
NA (Aust) Group Pty Ltd
SOR
Textured Asphalt Thresholds
Asphalt Laying Services Pty Ltd
SOR
City of Canterbury Pound Service
Fairford Road Animal Hospital
185 000
*SOR - Schedule of Rates
Legal Expenses Details of our legal proceedings during 2011-12 are listed below. Address
Status
Expenses ($)
Costs Awarded ($)
Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 165 Canterbury Road, Canterbury
Finalised
$ 302.5
16 Michael Avenue, Belfield
Finalised
$ 15,332.35
14 Osroy Avenue, Earlwood
Finalised
$ 1,759.45
31 Clarke Street, Earlwood
Finalised
$ 44,033.31
29 Balmoral Avenue, Croydon Park
Finalised
$ 770
1 Hamilton Avenue, Earlwood
Current
$ 2,900.05
$10,000
105. Councillor Fees, Expenses and Facilities
The Local Government Act 1993 (section 252) requires Council to adopt or amend a policy annually regarding the payment of expenses and the provision of facilities to the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Councillors. The Act also requires the policy to comply with the Department of Local Government’s Guidelines for the Payment of Expenses and the Provision of Facilities. Our policy meets this requirement and is as follows.
Principles •
This Policy is underpinned by the following principles:
•
Councillors are appropriately compensated for performing and discharging their Civic functions and duties.
•
Any reimbursements claimed by Councillors must be for expenses actually and necessarily incurred in performing and discharging their Civic functions and duties.
•
Councillors are entitled to receive:
•
•
an annual allowance as provided in Sections 248 and 249 of the Local Government Act 1993
•
reimbursement for prescribed expenses pursuant to Section 252 of the Local Government Act 1993.
Members of the community are encouraged to seek election to Council and are assured they will not be financially or otherwise disadvantaged by undertaking the civic duties of a Councillor.
Policy Objectives •
Generally to improve the delivery of services to the residents of the City of Canterbury by ensuring Councillors are appropriately supported to enable them to effectively carry out their civic role.
•
To provide support and assistance to the Mayor and Councillors in performing their roles by the provision of equipment and facilities.
•
To establish guidelines for the reimbursement and payment of expenses incurred by Councillors in attending conferences, seminars and other events relevant to local government.
•
To ensure that there is accountability and transparency in the reimbursement of expenses incurred or to be incurred by the Mayor and Councillors.
106 Annual Report 2011-12
Other NSW Government Policy Provisions
1.1.1
Approved Conferences (Within Australia) •
Annual Conference of the Local Government Association of NSW
•
Annual Conference of the Australian Local Government Association
•
National Assembly of Local Government
•
Local Government Managers Australia National Congress
•
2. Model Code of Conduct. (This policy is consistent with the Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW in particular with the use of Council resources).
Australian Local Government Women’s Association (National and State)
•
Meetings of the Australian Mayoral Aviation Council (AMAC)
3. Department of Local Government Circulars to Councils
•
Other events as approved by Council.
There are a number of publications which provide assistance to Councillors in complying with the provisions of this policy: 1. Department of Local Government Guidelines for Payment of Expenses and Provisions of Facilities (updated October 2009).
•
Circular 08/03 Findings from the Review of Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policies
•
Circular 05/08 Legal assistance for Councillors and Council employees
•
Circular 02/34 Unauthorised use of Council resources.
1. Independent Commission Against Corruption Publications •
No excuse for Misuse, preventing the misuse of Council resources.
Reporting Obligations Under Section 428 (2) (f) of the Local Government Act, the total amount expended on Mayoral and Councillors’ fees and as a result of this policy must be included in Council’s Annual Report.
Payment of Expenses 1.1
Conferences and Other Official Functions For the purpose of this policy, the term ‘conferences’ includes conferences, seminars, congresses, forums, workshops, courses, meetings, information and training sessions and official local government related functions or functions to which Councillors are invited in their capacity as a Councillor. Councillors are authorised to attend the following approved conferences and official functions within Australia in their official capacity.
1.1.2
Categories of payment or reimbursement related to Councillor attendance at conferences (a)
Registration fees
Council will pay all normal registration costs including the cost of related official functions, dinners and tours which are relevant to the interests of the Council or assist Councillors to discharge the functions of their civic office. (b)
Conference Travel
All travel to conferences should be undertaken by using the most direct route and the most practicable and economical mode of transport subject to Council determining alternative means of transport in special circumstances. This may include: •
private vehicle at the approved kilometre rate, or
•
economy class airfare (Journeys involving two hours or more of flying time may be business class at the discretion of the General Manager), or
•
where there is no airline service, first class rail fare.
Where a Council vehicle is used, all fuel costs etc will be reimbursed by Council, as will the costs of vehicle hire and/or taxi fares which are reasonably incurred while attending conferences. (c)
Accommodation and meals
Reasonable accommodation costs, based on charges for one room (either single, twin share or double) including meals and refreshments in a venue of suitable standard for the Councillor for the duration of the conference and while in transit to and from the conference. Any of the expenses outlined above, incurred by the Councillor, will be reimbursed subject to a
Strategic Leadership
claim being made in the prescribed form and the production of appropriate documentation/receipts.
1.1.3
Councillors are provided with a Cabcharge card to facilitate their travelling requirements for the following purposes:
Payment of Expenses for Spouses, Partners and Accompanying Persons
1. To and from the Councillor’s place of residence or employment in order to attend meetings of Council or its Committees.
For spouses, partners and accompanying persons, Council will pay •
Reasonable costs for attendance at official Council functions within the City of Canterbury
•
-Cost of registration and official dinner at the Local Government and Shires Association’s annual conference
2. To and from inspections within the area provided such inspections are undertaken in compliance with resolutions of Council. 3. Approved seminars and conferences. 4. To and from the Council’s Administration Centre for purposes relating to the business of the Council.
1.2 Travel 1.2.1
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(a) Councillors’ Private Vehicles
5. To and from Council business outside the area in accordance with a resolution of Council. This would include attendance at SSROC meetings and the like.
Council shall reimburse Councillors who use their own vehicles and who claim reimbursement within one month of travelling:
6. To and from meetings of community groups, whose activities encompass all or part of the Council’s area.
1. To and from the Councillor’s place of residence or employment in order to attend meetings of Council or its Committees.
7. To and from social functions and gatherings representing the Mayor or Council at the Mayor’s or General Manager’s request.
2. To and from inspections within the area provided such inspections relate to the business of Council.
8. To and from social functions and gatherings where the invitation stems from the Councillor’s official position
3. To and from approved seminars and conferences.
Use of a Cabcharge card by a Councillor is taken to be a certification by the Councillor concerned that the taxi journey being paid for is one which falls within the categories of permissible journeys listed above.
Local Travel
4. To and from Council’s Administration Centre for purposes relating to the business of Council.
Full details of the journey are to be recorded by the cardholder on a docket presented by the driver at the completion of the journey. These details include a pick up point, destination and the value of the fare. The cardholder is required to complete the docket correctly every time the card is used. A failure to do so could result in overcharging by the taxi operator.
5. To and from Council business outside of the area in compliance with a resolution of the Council. This includes attendance at SSROC meetings and the like. 6. To and from meetings of community groups, whose activities encompass all or part of the Council’s area. 7. To and from social functions and gatherings representing the Mayor or Council at the Mayor’s or General Manager’s request.
It is expected that in normal circumstances where a Councillor has the use of a Council vehicle, Cabcharge will not be used. This will not apply, however if in the opinion of the Councillor concerned, the completion of the business of Council in the most efficient manner warrants the use of Cabcharge in lieu of driving the Council vehicle.
8. To and from social functions and gatherings where the invitation stems from the Councillor’s official position. Councillors are personally responsible for all traffic or parking fines incurred while travelling in private or Council vehicles on Council business. Lodgment of a claim for reimbursement is taken to be a certification by the Councillor that the journey for which reimbursement is being claimed falls within the categories of permissible journeys listed above. (b) Cabcharge Card
All taxi journeys should follow the shortest practical route and be as expeditious as the circumstances allow.
1.2.2
Interstate and Overseas Travel There are instances where Councillors are required to visit Canberra for official purposes such as meetings with federal parliamentarians and ministers. For the purpose of this policy, the ACT is regarded as being within NSW.
108 Annual Report 2011-12
Where Councillors propose to travel interstate or overseas, the proposals shall be considered at an open Council meeting through a report from the Mayor or General Manager. The report should include the following information: •
who is to take part in the travel
•
objectives to be achieved in undertaking it, including an explanation of what community benefits will accrue from undertaking the visit
•
details of costs, including any amount expected to be reimbursed by participants.
In the case of a conduct complaint made against a councillor, legal costs will only be available to the Councillor where a matter has been referred to the Conduct Review Committee in accordance with the procedures contained in the Code of Conduct. In the case of a pecuniary interest or misbehavior matter legal costs will only be available when a formal investigation has been commenced by the Division of Local Government. Legal costs will not be met:
If the travel is to be sponsored by private enterprise, ICAC guidelines and reporting structures shall be followed. In addition, proposals for overseas travel by Councillors on Council business must be documented in the annual City Plan. The plan will be widely circulated in the community so as community input about the proposed visit can be considered as part of the City Plan review and budget finalisation process.
defending an action arising from the performance in good faith of a function of the Councillor; or
•
defending an action in defamation provided the statements complained of are made in good faith in the course of exercising a function of the Councillor; or
•
for proceedings before the Local Government Pecuniary Interest Tribunal or an investigative body provided the subject of the proceedings arises from the performance in good faith of a function of the Councillor and the Tribunal or investigative body makes a finding substantially favourable to the Councillor.
for legal proceedings that do not relate to a councillor performing their role as a councillor
•
for a councillor seeking advice in respect of possible defamation, or in seeking a nonlitigious remedy for possible defamation.
•
personal accident
•
public liability
•
professional indemnity
•
travel insurance as appropriate.
1.5 Training and Development Council will consider the payment of relevant training and development expenses incurred by Councillors that are directly related to the Councillors civic functions and responsibilities. The relevant training and courses need to be offered by the Division of Local Government, the Local Government Association or any other recognised organisation.
1.6 Child/Dependant Care
Council may, but subject to resolution on each and every occasion, indemnify or reimburse reasonable legal expenses of a Councillor in the following circumstances: •
•
Councillors receive the benefit of insurance cover for:
Where exceptional cases arise and overseas travel has to be undertaken at short notice, the above proposals will be put to Council for a decision. The outcomes, costs and attendances will be included in the first Annual Report prepared subsequent to the overseas travel occurring.
1.3 Legal Expenses
for legal proceedings initiated by a councillor
1.4 Insurance
Council should consider the above proposals in an open meeting and resolve whether or not the travel is to take place, and if so, on what particular basis. In the case of overseas travel, a detailed report will, on most occasions, be given in the Annual Report for the year in which the visit took place, as well as to an open Council meeting outlining how the objectives of the travel were met and what benefits will accrue to the community.
•
Councillors will be reimbursed for reasonable child/dependant care costs incurred in attending Council meetings, Committee meetings, workshops, briefing sessions and other meetings relating to Council’s operations. Councillors will be reimbursed for expenses associated with child/dependent care paid to providers other than immediate family, spouse or partner up to 1 hour before and after such meetings (based on advertised commencement time) subject to the prescribed form being completed and/or the production of appropriate documentation/receipts.
1.7
Claims for Reimbursement •
Councillors are required to provide evidence of expenses incurred in the prescribed form to support all reimbursements claimed, including appropriate receipts and tax invoices.
Strategic Leadership
•
•
Payments in advance in anticipation of expenses to be incurred in attending conferences, seminars etc may be provided to Councillors. Where such payments are provided Councillors will be required to provide evidence of expenses incurred in the prescribed form including appropriate receipts and tax invoices. All claims for reimbursement must be submitted to the General Manager within 28 days of expenses being incurred.
2.5 Transportation Provision of an official vehicle (when available) for travel to conferences, seminars, meetings, etc. when on official Council business in accordance with clause 2.10. Councillors must hold a current NSW driver’s licence to use an official vehicle.
2.6 Refreshments Provision of meals and refreshments at Council and committee meetings, workshops, briefings and other meetings related to Council’s operations.
Provision of Facilities
2.7 Councillors’ Room
2.1 Communications Equipment and Furniture
2.8 Meeting Rooms
•
Laptop computer or PC, printer and associated equipment, appropriate software and training. No unauthorised or unlicensed software is to be installed on the computers.
•
Mobile phone and accessories, facsimile machine, telephone answering service and dedicated landlines to Councillors’ home, if required.
•
Computer desk, chair, filing cabinet/s and other office equipment and accessories.
Note: Councillor to pay for private phone calls. (See 3.1)
2.2 Stationery/Publications •
Use of Councillor letterhead.
•
Provision of legislative publications and other printed matter relevant to Local Government as requested.
•
Supply of business cards (with or without photograph at Councillor’s discretion), good quality brief case and other stationery and supplies.
•
Provision of Christmas cards up to a maximum of 400 cards for the Mayor and 200 cards for Councillors.
2.3 Postage Postage of official Councillor correspondence to be directed through the Council’s own mail system.
2.4
Secretarial Support Secretarial support may be provided for each Councillor at the Administration Centre. This may include typing, photocopying or use of a telephone. All expenses incurred including the cost of staff shall be met by the Council.
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An office area for interview and Council work related purposes. The room will be provided with telephones, equipment, stationery, refreshments and recognised Local Government publications.
Provision of meeting facilities in the Administration Centre for the purpose of Council, Committee and Task Group/Special committee meetings with constituents are subject to the following policy adopted by Council. THAT: 1. the Function Room be made available to the Mayor, Councillors and staff of Council free of charge, provided the use is directly related to Council business/activities and involves the actual attendance of Councillors. 2. staff usage (referred to in Item 1 above) be approved by the General Manager. 3. bookings be administered in the normal manner through Executive Services staff. 4. use of the bar area only be permitted in connection with functions and meetings held in accordance with Item 1 above.
2.9 Clothing Provision of a jacket and other corporate clothing for official purposes including a name badge.
2.10 Official Vehicles A Councillor may use one of two vehicles provided to facilitate Councillors’ travelling requirements, (subject to availability) for the following purposes: 1. To and from the Councillor’s place of residence in order to attend meetings of Council or its Committees. 2. To and from inspections within the area relating to the business of Council. 3. To and from approved seminars, conferences, workshops and other meetings related to Council’s operations.
110 Annual Report 2011-12
4. To and from Council’s Administration Centre for purposes relating to the business of the Council. 5. To and from Council business outside the area in compliance with a resolution of the Council. This would include attendance at SSROC meetings and the like. 6. To and from meetings of community groups, whose activities encompass all or part of the Council’s area. 7. To and from social functions and gatherings representing the Mayor or Council at the Mayor’s or General Manager’s request. 8. To and from social functions and gatherings where the invitation stems from the Councillors’ official position. 9. Use of a Councillor vehicle is taken to be a certification by the Councillor concerned that the travel to be undertaken falls within the categories of permissible journeys listed above. 10. Details of journeys are to be recorded in the logbook stored in the glove box of the vehicle.
2.13 Provision of facilities of significant monetary value The approval of Council must be sought if councillors require the purchase of facilities of significant monetary value.
Establishment of Monetary Limits In accordance with the Department of Local Government’s Guidelines, limits must be set on expenses claimed. In setting these limits it is recognised that Canterbury City Council is classified as a category 2 council by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal. Monetary limits applying to this policy are similar to other large metropolitan category 2 ranked councils.
3.1
Council will meet the cost of providing the mobile telephone, maintenance, monthly service and access fees and call charges, incurred during the conduct of civic duties only, up to a maximum of $300.00 per month for the Mayor and $250.00 per month for other Councillors.
11. Councillors will pick up and return the vehicles to the Administration Centre. 12. Except in the case of an emergency, the vehicle is not to be driven by anyone other than the Councillor in whose name the vehicle is booked. 13. Councillors are requested to immediately report any mechanical defect or fault by notifying Executive Services. 14. Any accident involving damage to Council’s vehicle or a third party is to be reported immediately to Executive Services. 15. The vehicles must not be used for private purposes. Any private use even incidental private use that gives rise to personal advantage or gain could lead to disqualification from civic office. 16. Councillors are personally responsible for all traffic or parking fines incurred while travelling in private or Council vehicles on council business.
2.11 Preparation of Media Material Professional advice and assistance from Officers in preparing media material (other than election campaign material) relevant to the Councillor’s role.
2.12 Council Facilities Access during normal hours of operation without charge.
Mobile Telephone
3.2 Cabcharge Council will meet the cost of providing the Cabcharge facilities in accordance with clause 1.2.1(b) of this policy up to a maximum of $300.00 per month for the Mayor and $200.00 per month for other Councillors.
3.3
Care and other related expenses The maximum entitlement for such expenses is $1000.00 per annum.
3.4 Incidental expenses Reasonable incidental or out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed for costs associated with attending conferences, seminars, training or other Council related official events, excluding expenses normally of a private nature ( for example personal grooming). Incidental expenses are taken to include items such as: •
Internet or facsimile charges
•
Laundry and dry cleaning
•
Taxis
•
Parking fees
•
Newspapers
•
Meals not covered by conference registration or accommodation packages
Strategic Leadership
Incidental expenses do not include accommodation costs or travel expenses for conferences, such as air fares, car hire, cost of petrol and vehicle running costs, which are dealt with in 1.1.2(b) and 1.1.2(c) of this policy. The maximum entitlement for incidental expenses is $200 per day. Claims for reimbursement must be accompanied by receipts or appropriate documentation. Any other costs incurred by a Councillor in addition to the daily limits, are the responsibility of the individual Councillor.
Mayor In addition to the facilities provided to the Councillors, the following benefits apply to the Mayor: •
Vehicle Unrestricted use of a Holden Caprice or equivalent, including all factory fitted accessories and extras and all fuel, repairs, maintenance and running expenses associated with the vehicle. The vehicle is to be replaced at regular intervals in accordance with Council’s vehicle replacement policy.
•
Fuel Card For use only with Mayoral vehicle.
•
Office Food, soft drinks and alcoholic refreshments for ceremonial and social purposes. Electronic equipment, stationery, furnishings and accessories.
•
Credit Card For the purpose of discharging the functions of the Mayoral Office in accordance with the annual budget provision.
Deputy Mayor The Deputy Mayor may exercise any function of the Mayor at the request of the Mayor or if the Mayor is prevented by illness, absence or otherwise from exercising the function or if there is a casual vacancy in the Office of Mayor. Should this occur the Deputy Mayor will receive the facilities available to the Mayor set out in this policy, excluding the use of the Mayoral vehicle and credit card. The Mayoral vehicle and credit card will be provided to the Deputy Mayor when acting in the office of the Mayor for a continuous period of three months or more.
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Other Matters 6.1 Return of Equipment Where appropriate and practicable Councillors are to return to Council, after the completion of their term of office or entering extended leave of absence or at the cessation of their civic duties, all facilities and equipment that have been allocated to them by Council. Should a Councillor desire to keep any equipment allocated by Council, then this policy enables the Councillor to make application to the General Manger to purchase any such equipment. The General Manager will determine an agreed fair market price or written down value for the item of equipment.
6.2 Use of Council Resources Councillors should be mindful of the provisions of the Code of Conduct when using Council resources. The Code of Conduct provides that Council resources must be used ethically, effectively, efficiently and carefully. Council property including intellectual property, official services, equipment and facilities must not be used for private benefit or gain. Council resources should not be used for re-election purposes or for political activities such as political party fundraising events. It is acknowledged that incidental private use of Council equipment and facilities may occur from time to time. Such incidental private use is not subject to a compensatory payment by the Councillor to Council. However, if substantial private use of Council’s equipment and facilities occurs, Councillors will need to reimburse Council for the increased level of private use.
6.3 Disputes about Expenses and Facilities Should dispute (s) arise about the provision of expenses and facilities the matter will be reported to the first available council meeting for determination.
6.4 General Expense Allowance No provision for a “general” expense or allowance for Councillors is included in the policy.
6.5 Expenses or facilities not listed in this policy Should a councillor request provision of a facility, equipment or the reimbursement of an expense not listed in this policy, formal Council approval is required.
112 Annual Report 2011-12
•
General The Council may from time to time amend the level of support, amount to be paid, and conditions applicable to the items under this policy or under subsequent policies adopted in accordance with Section 252 and 253 of the Local Government Act. Such amendments must occur by resolution of the Council.
Councillor Expenses Item
2011-12
Fee payments: To mayor
$36,320
To councillors
$138,113
Total fee payments
$174,433
Total expenses and facilities
$92,919
Including:
Show any subsidies provided by us. Subsidising a service is an acceptable and appropriate way to support our community service obligations.
According to our audited financial statements our trading enterprises are Category 2 Businesses. Financial information on these business activities can be found in the Special Purpose Financial Statements in this Annual Report. This position will be reviewed in subsequent years as in the future both Long day Care and Aquatic Centres businesses may fall into Category 1.
Competitive Neutrality Complaints A complaints handling policy is included in our policy register available on our Web site at www.canterbury.nsw.gov. au or from our Customer Service Centre. No complaints were received during 2010-11.
Category 2 Business Turnover Activity
Annual Sales Turnover
Early Learning Centres
$ 3,337,890.82
Aquatic Centres
$ 2,563,273.96
Tennis Courts
•
Office equipment
$17,842
•
Telephone calls
$11,429
•
Conference and Seminars
$33,349
•
Training
$3,600
Delegations and visits: Interstate visits
$ nil
Overseas visits
$ nil
Total visits
$ nil
The City of Canterbury established a formal Sister City relationship with Eunpyeong-gu, Republic of Korea, in June 1988. This partnership, the oldest between a Republic of Korea local government authority and an Australian Council.
$ 24,671.82
External Interests External Bodies Exercising Our Functions There were no external bodies exercising our functions during 2011-12.
Companies in Which We Had A Controlling Interest We did not hold a controlling interest in any companies during 2011-12.
Partnerships, Co-Operatives & Joint Ventures
Council’s policy is that Councillors pay for the own airfares when travelling overseas, The host country covers all on the ground costs. No overseas travel was conducted during this reporting period.
Council has an interest in the following organisations:
Competition Policy The NSW Government has issued guidelines that councils have to follow to comply with the National Competition Policy. These guidelines require us to report on our business activities and to adopt the principles of competitive neutrality. This is the principle of creating a level playing field so that councils do not have an advantage over other businesses because of their public ownership. To do this we: •
Determine which of our activities qualify as businesses (using set criteria);
•
Put in place effective costing systems that allow us to identify the true cost of providing services;
•
Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils
•
Statewide Mutual Liability Scheme
•
Statewide Mutual Limited
•
Leigh Place Retirement Housing Limited
•
YMCA for the Morris Iemma Indoor Sports Centre
GIPA In accordance with s.125 of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act) we are required to prepare an annual report on our obligations under the Act. This report provides information in accordance with s. 7 of the GIPA Regulations.
Strategic Leadership
Annual reporting requirements under section 125 of the Act The annual report of an agency required to be prepared under section 125 of the Act must include the following: 1. Details of the review carried out by the agency under section 7(3) of the Act during the reporting year and the details of any information made publicly available by the agency as a result of the review. •
Reviews of Open Access information are carried out formally as part of a review program, or informally as a result of new information being made available.
•
The Information Guide is reviewed annually. We have reviewed our Information Guide and have published an updated Guide in accordance with s.21 of the Act
•
Our Policy Register is reviewed twice annually. During the reporting year the Register has been reviewed and in excess of 150 policies have been amended, updated or removed as required. In addition, the Register is updated when new policies are adopted or existing policies amended as a result of a Council or Senior Management decision.
•
The Contracts Register has been comprehensively reviewed and updated by our Procurement team. Procedures are in place to ensure new contracts, which meet the GIPA criteria, are added to the register when the contract is implemented.
•
At the determination of each formal GIPA application, a decision is made regarding its inclusion in the Disclosure Log. Most of our formal GIPA applications relate to specific information which we consider would most likely not to be of interest to other members of the public. (GIPA Act s.25)
•
Our Corporate Communications team is very proactive in ensuring information of community interest is published on our website. e.g. current local affairs and events, documents on exhibition, all Council and Committees (including Community Advisory Committees) Agendas and Minutes, development application process, traffic committee information and community services and programs information. Where possible, information is translated into community languages.
2. The total number of access applications received by the agency during the reporting year (including withdrawn applications but not including invalid applications) A total of 65 access applications were received during the reporting year and none were withdrawn. The processing of two applications has carried over to the new reporting year, leaving a total of 63 applications being determined. Two applications are currently under review by the Office of the Information Commissioner. As a determination on these reviews has not been made, the reviews have not been included in the Table G below.
113
The number of applications received is a marked increase on previous years under both the Freedom of Information legislation and the GIPA legislation. This can be attributed to an increased interest by the general public in government information which would not normally be published on our website as open access e.g. historical development information related to specific properties, information from closed sessions of Council meetings, investigations as a result of insurance matters (personal claims), legal and confidential matters. It should be noted that our Open Access applications have also substantially increased due the restrictions, imposed by the amendment to the GIPA Act, to publish information on our website which would be in breach of the Copyright Act (Cth). This has resulted in many applications to view this information on site which has resulted in a greater demand on resources involved in providing and supervising the viewing process. 3. The total number of access applications received by the agency during the reporting year that the agency refused, either wholly or partly, because the application was for disclosure of information referred to in Schedule 1 of the Act (information of which there is conclusive presumption of overriding public interest against disclosure) One application was refused on Schedule 1 grounds. 4. Information, as set out in the form required by the tables in Schedule 2, relating to the access applications (in any) made to the agency during the reporting year. The Schedule 2 Tables follow:
114.
GOVERNMENT INFORMATION (PUBLIC ACCESS) ACT Section A - Number of applications by type of applicant and outcome Access granted in full
Access granted in part
Access refused in full
Information not held
Media
0
0
0
0
Members of Parliament
0
0
0
Private sector business
15
7
Not for profit organisations or community groups
2
Members of the public (application by legal representative) Members of the public (other)
Information already available
Refuse to deal with application
Refuse to confirm/ deny whether information is held
Application withdrawn
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
6
2
0
1
0
0
0
0
15
10
1
8
0
0
0
0
Section b - Number of applications by type of application and outcome Access granted in full
Access granted in part
Access refused in full
Information not held
Personal information applications
7
2
0
2
Access applications (other than personal information applications)
31
17
1
Access applications that are partly personal information applications and partly other
0
0
0
Information already available
Refuse to deal with application
Refuse to confirm/ deny whether information is held
Application withdrawn
0
0
0
0
9
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Strategic Leadership
Section c - Invalid applications Reason for invalidity
No of applications
Application does not comply with formal requirements (section 41 of the Act)
0
Application is for excluded information of the agency (section 43 of the Act)
0
Application contravenes restraint order (section 110 of the Act)
0
Total number of invalid applications received
0
Invalid applications that subsequently became valid applications
0
Section d - Conclusive presumption of overriding public interest against disclosure: matters listed in Schedule 1 to Act Number of times consideration used Overriding secrecy laws
0
Cabinet information
0
Executive Council information
0
Contempt
0
Legal professional privilege
1
Excluded information
0
Documents affecting law enforcement and public safety
0
Transport safety
0
Adoption
0
Care and protection of children
0
Ministerial code of conduct
0
Aboriginal and environmental heritage
0
Section e - Other public interest considerations against disclosure: matters listed in table to section 14 of Act Number of occasions when application not successful Responsible and effective government
0
Law enforcement and security
0
Individual rights, judicial processes and natural justice
19
Business interests of agencies and other persons
0
Environment, culture, economy and general matters
0
Secrecy provisions
0
Exempt documents under interstate Freedom of Information legislation
0
115
116 Annual Report 2011-12
Section f - Timeliness Number of applications Decided within the statutory timeframe (20 days plus any extensions)
62
Decided after 35 days (by agreement with applicant)
1
Not decided within time (deemed refusal)
0
Total
63
Section g - Number of applications reviewed under Part 5 of the Act (by type of review and outcome) Decision varied
Decision upheld
Total
Internal review
0
0
0
Review by Information Commissioner
0
0
0
Internal review following recommendation under section 93 of Act
0
0
0
Review by ADT
0
0
0
Total
0
0
0
Section H - Applications for review under Part 5 of the Act (by type of applicant) Number of applications for review Applications by access applicants
0
Applications by persons to whom information the subject of access application relates (see section 54 of the Act)
0
Strategic Leadership
117
Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 We received two applications for review under the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act in the reporting period. Both applications were investigated in accordance with s.53 of the Act. We continue to acknowledge the importance of privacy and uphold the Information Protection Principals (IPPs), as stated in the Act, in all our transactions.
Complaint management The City of Canterbury aims to provide the best possible service to our customers. We are committed to addressing and resolving enquiries and complaints, improving customer service delivery and increasing community satisfaction. Whilst we hope that complaints do not arise, we recognise the value of complaints as an important tool in monitoring and responding to customer and community expectations, and providing quality services and facilities to residents and local businesses. Complaints generally occur when your expectations have not been met. We aim to ensure that all complaints are dealt with in a timely and effective manner. In January 2010 we introduced a new complaint management reporting system. From 1 July 2011 – 30 June 2012, we received 93 complaints, all of which have been resolved.
118. PRIORITY PROJECTS
priority project Status Expansion of online services, including council information, enquiries and requests, and application forms
The Library now has a Facebook page and an eLibrary area has been established to access online resources. Development of a web based mapping service is in progress.
Continuing planning for the Civic Centre Site redevelopment
Work continues on updating project feasibility assessment and co-ordinating activities of quantity surveyor, workspace accommodation specification consultant and project viability consultant.
Continuing integration of enterprise risk management
Implementation of e-lodgement facilities is waiting for IT upgrades. A Library Blog was launched for the National Year of Reading.
Annual risk review and analysis across the organisation is complete, as well as risk reviews for community events, sporting public liability, and building security and safety. A positive report was received after the Statewide Public Liability Self Assessment verification audit. A comprehensive risk management section has been prepared for inclusion in the Events Operations Manual.
119. PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES
Long Term Goal 4.1 Healthy Finances Services provided:
Service Standards Met
Accounting administration – processed 6,325 transactions Creditor and payment services – made 25,700 supplier and creditor payments Debtor services – managed 2,171 outstanding accounts Grant applications - submitted 19 applications Lease and licence administration - re-negotiated 15 leases Management reporting - prepared monthly financial reports Purchase and sale of property - completed 4 sale or purchase transactions Rates collection – issued 153,867 rates notices Inventory management - processed 15,209 inventory transactions Initiatives completed: Updated procedures for submitting RTA grant applications Documented policies and procedures for property and legal services Prepare a policy and procedures for access across sports fields by agencies Identify and document policies and procedures for hire of sports fields halls and other facilities Prepared a Strategic Property Portfolio Plan Continued development of a Sponsorship policy Continued the Drainage Reserve Sale Program Strategy measures: Result
Target
Status
Strategy: Provide long term financial planning financial advice and budgeting and financial control to ensure Council can meet its financial commitments at all times Debt service ratio Current ratio
1.50%
5.00%
1.88
3
25,150
25,000
$0.00
$350
Strategy: : Increase local sponsorship in our festivals and events Sponsorship ($ per quarter)
Strategy: Facilitate the optimum use of council property assets Proceeds from sale of drainage reserves ($'000)
~
120 Annual Report 2011-12
Strategy measures: Result
Target
Status
Strategy: Research negotiate and complete all transactions and facilitate the provision of expert advice associated with the acquisition sale lease license and hire of Council’s real property assets Occupancy rate of tenantable buildings
100%
95%
Long Term Goal 4.2 Engaged Community Services provided:
Service Standards Met
Advisory committee support – facilitated 31 advisory committee meetings Annual report – prepared annual report Civics education program – held 6 civics education programs Community newsletter – 2.00 community newsletters issued Council column – published 51 council columns Customer enquiry handling – responded to 162,000 enquiries Demographic information – responded to 15 requests for information E-newsletter – published 54 newsletters Library Information – answered 33,040 Reference and Local / Family History queries Information Stalls – held 76 information stalls Mapping Information – provided 632 maps and 778 responses to information requests Media assistance – provided responses to 71 enquiries Media releases – issued 159 media releases Website and intranet maintenance – 1,710 updates
Initiatives completed: Investigated further development of community legal services in collaboration with relevant stakeholders Commenced investigating the need for a policy on Alcohol Free Zones Established an Arts Advisory Committee and developed a plan of action for the Committee Continued to implement the actions from the Ageing Strategy in collaboration with Senior Citizen Advisory Committee and relevant stakeholders Implemented outcomes from the 2011 Youth Summit in partnership with the CYC and other services Prepared a Graffiti management Policy and Strategy Prepared an End of Term Report in time for the 2012 council elections Prepared a Community Gardens Policy Continued to implement new forms of communication such as Web 2.0 technologies access to online services and dissemination of information via an improving website and electronic newsletters, online forms online surveys and blogs In partnership with community legal services delivered appropriate information to residents on available community legal assistance Partnered with the Australian Electoral Commission and Electoral Commission of NSW to provide information and updates on locations and availability of accessible polling places in Canterbury Partnered with the NSW Department of Health to deliver information sessions on mental health targeting specific language groups Advocated for expanded waste education for the community in particular a waste calendar
Strategic Leadership
Initiatives completed: Commenced working in partnership with NSW Health to deliver information on promoting health and wellbeing to residents of local boarding houses Redeveloped library website with implementation of social media tools such as Facebook Twitter and YouTube Implemented an e-news version of library newsletter Strategy measures: Result
Target
Status
Strategy: Promote access and equity and advocate for the people of our community 80%
Resolution of priority issues raised by Advisory Committees
90%
Strategy: Ongoing engagement and consultation are used as aids to ensure library collections and services meet community needs Community satisfaction with library events and programs
93%
90%
Community selection and Reference Group meetings held
9
9
Strategy: Implement activities to inform residents business community groups and associations and staff Website visitors (per quarter)
113,535
105,000
Strategy: Provide relevant information to people on issues that affect them Information issued through all community development programs (items per month)
968
2,000
~
Strategy: Facilitate the ongoing relationship between council and our community and customers by providing accurate and timely information and access to services Enquiries resolved in the customer service centre
97%
83%
Telephone Help Desk enquiries resolved within 5 days
97%
90%
Strategy: Our Libraries achieve a level of high visibility and public awareness through comprehensive communications strategies Number of council columns and published media releases mentioning library events and programs (year to date)
104
60
33,040
30,000
Strategy: Our Libraries provide timely and accurate information services Number of information queries (year to date)
Long Term Goal 4.3 Effective Governance Services provided:
Access to information requests (formal) – GIPA Act – processed 63 requests Access to information requests – PPIP Act – processed 1 request Assets - investigations – completed 824 investigations Assets - completed annual road network asset survey Assets - reporting and information – completed annual report Assets - Design production – produced 34 designs Assets - Design project management – managed 6 major projects Assets - completed annual review of Infrastructure Renewal Plan
Service Standards Met
121
122 Annual Report 2011-12
Services provided:
Service Standards Met
Assets - Mapping of asset information – collected data for 6 asset classes Assets - Project design briefs – prepared 93 design briefs Assets - Signage replacement – replaced 41 street name signs Assets - Vehicle crossings– provided 335 quotations Certification of survey plans – certified 48 survey plans Complaints handling – handled 75 complaints Council meetings – facilitated 87 meetings Customer requests – responded to 27,789 requests Document archiving and disposal – archived or disposed of 1250 files Grant administration – administered 108 programs Incoming document processing – processed 32,773 documents Internal Audit – conducted 6 reviews Open access information (informal) – GIPA Act – processed 23 requests Policy register maintenance – updated 129 policies Publication Guide – GIPA Act – completed annual review Risk identification and analysis – facilitated 43 assessments Risk management committee support – facilitated 3 meetings Risk management training and awareness – conducted 23 activities Tender processing – supervised 10 major tenders
Initiatives completed: Provided online access to documents in accordance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act (GIPA Act) 2009 Maintained internal report policy and procedures and staff awareness mechanisms for compliance for compliance with the Public Interest Disclosures Act Contributed to SSROC Public Works Working Group Established new system(s) for building asset management Commenced recording details of national and international standards used in design preparation on design documentation Commended integrating Plan Registers into one consolidated system Facilitated Integrated Planning Team Updated four year program of integrated planning activities Updated City Lifestyle Indicators and Council Performance Measures Continued to audit corporate performance data collection and reporting Reviewed Events Risk Manual Increased awareness of policy responsibility and compliance Implemented compliance register reporting process Prepared a policy on Copyright Prepared a procedure for internal investigations Increased access to Statement of Business Ethics
Strategic Leadership
Initiatives completed: Commenced a records management implementation review program Strategy measures: Result
Target
87%
90%
Status
Strategy: Facilitate operational accountability and transparency Governance Health Check Aggregate Score
Strategy: Monitor implementation of the corporate risk management program Number of Risk Assessments & Reviews completed
43
22
Number of Risk Management Training & Awareness activities completed
23
22
Strategy: : Ensure legal compliance through the effective administration of policies Number of guidance documents available on the Intranet
18
18
Currency of policy documents - average age in years
4.2
8
Strategy: : Create maintain archive and dispose of Council records providing appropriate access to internal and external customers and ensuring retention of corporate memory Percentage of issues raised by internal users in the biennial customer satisfaction survey resolved within 12 months Staff using Data Works as the corporate records system Documents registered into Data Works
100%
90%
190
180
37,101
35,000
123
IMPROVING ORGANISATION
126. Highlights
We are committed to ensuring our staff are equipped with the necessary skills and experience to provide excellent service in their work roles. In particular, our works staff undertake several practical training courses each quarter in the use of equipment. This training also contributes to our continuing good performance in occupational health and safety.
Workplace Relations The ongoing coaching and mentoring of line management in effective employee relations and performance management has contributed to a stable industrial environment. Only one industrial matter progressed to the Commission and it was settled at the conciliation stage.
Strategic Service Review Program A review of our Community and Recreation Section was conducted as part of the Strategic Service Review Program. A consultancy group was appointed to undertake a significant stakeholder engagement process with staff from our Community and Recreation Section to understand their views on current operations and explore ideas on how community outcomes could be improved. The consultancy group also completed external market benchmarking with four comparable councils to obtain an understanding of alternative approaches to community service delivery and community development. A new structure has been endorsed by our Executive team following extensive consultation with the affected staff, Joint Consultative Committee and the United Services Union. Implementation of the new structure, including recruitment processes for new roles, will take place in the second half of 2012.
Corporate Leadership Cup The City of Canterbury had the pleasure of hosting the 2011 Local Government Corporate Leadership Cup. The two-day event saw three metropolitan councils and their sister-city councils compete in nine teams to address a range of real world local government leadership and business challenges. A judging panel of five experienced and talented professionals, including current and former local government General Managers, evaluated each team’s presentation to the three key challenges prepared for the event. Together, the combined wealth of experience, knowledge and standing in local government of these judges added significant value for
Improving Organisation
teams in the Leadership challenge and provided important insights in the assessment of team tasks. The Corporate Leadership Cup was a huge success for the City of Canterbury as out two teams finished in first and second place in the overall standings. Positive feedback and comments were also provided by participants regarding their sense of achievement and personal growth; increased confidence in their problem solving, time management and project management skills; a greater understanding of the role of a council and its functions; and a broader knowledge of the challenges facing local government today.
Service Recognition Program A Service Recognition Program was developed in consultation with our Joint Consultative Committee to formally recognise the achievement of key employee service milestones. The implementation of the program took effect from 1 January 2012 and aims to acknowledge the benefits gained through the valued service of our employees, create a greater sense of employee engagement and loyalty, and attract and retain employees who are aligned with our culture and values.
Salary and Performance Management System Review Following a review of our Salary and Performance Management System a draft policy was developed and ongoing consultation with key stakeholders has been undertaken for the most part of this year. The Policy aims to achieve an integrated system of performance and learning which supports employee learning needs, career management and succession planning in conjunction with delivering real improvements in the quality of life for people living and working in the City of Canterbury. The new Salary and Performance Management System is expected to be endorsed by all stakeholders and implemented during the 2012-13 financial year.
127
Equal Employment Opportunity Refresher Training EEO Refresher training was conducted in April and May in accordance with the EEO Management Plan. All staff were required to complete refresher training to remind them of their responsibilities under EEO. The key focus of the training was on promoting a culture of respect in the workplace. The training involved two programs being delivered. The training for Managers, Team Leaders and Coordinators focused on the four different types of organisational cultures and also involved looking at how modelling desired behaviour is important to being a positive role model in a respectful workplace. The staff training sessions focused on supporting a culture of respect in the workplace by undertaking self analysis and by thinking about ways in which changes in behaviour can support a culture of respect. The training showed that if everyone makes small changes in the workplace, it can lead to a better workplace for all.
Work Health & Safety Management System Training With the introduction of the new Work Health and Safety Management System, an intensive training program was conducted to provide all employees in the organisation with an understanding of their roles and responsibilities. The rollout of this training occurred throughout the months of February and March. The training focused on providing an awareness of the changes in legislation that came into effect on January 1 2012 in New South Wales as well as providing employees with a detailed overview of our new Work, Health and Safety Management System. Feedback from the training was very positive with the average overall rating being at 83% for both the Team Leader and general staff training sessions.
128 Annual Report 2011-12
Introduction of New Training Programs
EEO Policy and EEO Management Plan Awareness
The year also saw the introduction of new programs including De-escalating Aggressive Behaviours; Evidence and Brief Preparation; Verbal Judo for Contact Professionals; and Dangerous Dogs Handling Awareness.
EEO and Cultural Awareness training was conducted for all new employees as part of the Canterbury Way Corporate Induction Program.
Occupational Health and Safety Performance A key benchmark for the measurement of our workers’ compensation performance is the premium rate paid by us compared to the average rate for the industry and the average for StateCover insured councils. Our average premium rate was pleasingly below both the StateCover Average and the DLG Group Average. An important measure of occupational health and safety and return to work performance is the number of lost time injuries reported. We achieved a very strong result in this area, with our Lost Time Injury Rate below the StateCover Average and DLG Group Average. Early injury reporting is widely acknowledged as a driver of good claim results. We reported 85% of injuries within two business days, a better result than that achieved by the StateCover Average and DLG Group Average.
Workers’ Compensation Premium Our workers’ compensation adjustment premium for 2011-12 was $48,522.67. This figure is based on the difference between the estimated premium of $1,735,384.00 and the actual premium of $1,783,907.00. A number of factors have contributed to this increase in 201112, including an increase in the cost of claims from the period 2010-11, where there are two injured workers that remain unable to return to their pre-injury position. There has also been an increase in the number of claims lodged with respect to skin cancer, which has had a significant effect on our premium.
Work Health and Safety Management System During the period of 2011-12 our new Work, Health and Safety Management System was endorsed and an implementation program was developed and rolled out to ensure all staff are informed of the policies and procedures relevant to their position.
EMERGING ISSUES Key emerging issues include: •
Manage the industrial and staffing implications arising from the ongoing Strategic Services Review program.
•
Manage the successful transfer of employee information and records onto a Human Resources Information Management System.
•
Conduct training for Managers that will provide them with the skills required to create individual performance agreements for their staff as part of the new salary and performance management system.
•
Develop and implement an Employee Opinion Survey which will identify areas for business improvement and assist with our workforce planning.
•
The development of an Implementation Plan to direct the effective roll-out of our WHS Procedures.
•
The development of a WHS Management Plan, which will detail a series of initiatives to improve WHS.
Senior Staff Remuneration For the period, four employees were designated to be senior staff in terms of the Local Government Act 1993. Under their contracts, senior staff are, among other things, expected to attend all Council meetings and be on call. Remuneration is in packaged form and comprises cash, car, fringe benefits tax and superannuation. The remuneration packages of senior staff as at 30 June 2012 were as follows: Senior Staff Remuneration 2011-12
Salary
Super
NonCash Benefit
FBT
General Manager
$272,086 $25,838 $15,000
$14,512
Director Corporate Services
$165,655 $29,345 $15,000
$4,265
Director City Works
$163,899 $16,101 $15,000
$2,821
Director City Planning
$171,055 $16,745 $15,000
$4,215
129. PRIORITY PROJECTS
Priority project Status Upgrading corporate information technology including electronic records, library information, geographical information, and human resources information systems
Expanding Disaster Recover Plans
Being more responsive to our community with increased opportunity for community consultation and engagement
Wireless access is now available at all branch Libraries. The first version of Libero Uno - an enhanced search portal for library catalogue to search online databases – has been installed. Geographical information database spatial accuracy verification, and data filtering projects are now complete. Work has commenced on scoping functional requirements for a human resources information system.
We participated in a review of Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Planning facilitated by SSROC. The Business Continuity Plan for the Administration Centre is now complete, and will be tested in the coming financial year. Business Continuity Plans will be prepared for other key sites during 2012/13.
A revised charter for the Economic Development Committee to better reflect the diversity of stakeholders in economic development was adopted by council in July 2011. We continue to use Facebook, Twitter, eNewsletters, Website, online forms, e-surveys, and search engine optimisation to engage community in consultation with services and facilities.
130. PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES
Long Term Goal 5.1 Efficient services Initiatives completed: Implemented Libero Uno - an enhanced search portal for library catalogue to search online databases Implemented wireless access at Earlwood Library Reviewed competitive tendering guidelines and procurement policy Coordinated Service Review Program and prepared Implementation Plan Commenced investigation of centralisation of procurement and establish meaningful measures for the procurement and logistics function Commenced review of the online induction program Review policies and procedures for Libraries, Children’s Centres and Aquatic Centres Reviewed use of technology to achieve improvements in enforcement practice. Strategy measures: Result
Target
$555,000
$0.00
2
10
Status
Strategy: : Improve council building cleaning services Total cost of Cleaning Services Minimal number of complaints regarding the standard of cleaning.
Strategy: Our Libraries enable a culture of continual improvement and best practice Items per capita
1.09
1.1
Total expenditure per capita
$35.09
$35.00
Library materials expenditure per capita
$3.67
$3.90
Strategy: Our Libraries optimise customer service and efficiency of operations through enhanced technology Our Libraries optimise customer service and efficiency of operations through enhanced technology
1
10
Strategy: Our Libraries optimise customer service and efficiency of operations through enhanced technology Number of online transactions - reservations and renewals
109,377
65,000
Customer satisfaction measured by survey (out of 10)
8.32
7.5
Complete the Learning and Development quarterly report
100%
100%
Strategy: Ensure learning and development solutions add value
Improving Organisation
Long Term Goal 5.2 Responsible employer Services provided:
Service Standards Met
Compliance training programs – facilitated 80 training programs Skill development programs – facilitated 192 courses Induction – facilitated for 3-day programs Learning and development plans - reviewed all plans Workplace health and safety – policy maintenance, safety risk assessments and injury management Payroll – issued weekly payments to staff Recruitment and selection – appropriate engaged 50 new staff Undertook annual Salary and Performance Management Assessments Recruitment and selection– appropriately engaged 60 new staff
Initiatives completed: Implemented new Performance Management System. Implemented a Mature Workforce Policy Implemented Workforce Management Strategy Document incident procedures Provide training in applicable safe work practices for volunteers Reviewed OH&S procedures in accordance with the OH&S Management System Commenced Environmental Champions program to encourage sustainable initiatives at work Developed a Sustainable Event Management Policy Implemented the Sustainability Policy and training program Continued Fleetsafe Program including Driver Induction Training Commenced implementing the EEO Management Plan for 2012-14 Investigated options for a new Salary System Commenced implementing online incident reporting Strategy measures: Result
Target
29%
45%
14
115
Vehicle accident frequency - driver not at fault ratio
43%
40%
Vehicle accident frequency - undetermined ratio
29%
15%
$4,100
$70,000
$850
$50,000
Status
Strategy: Improve driver behaviour and fleet safety Vehicle accident frequency - driver at fault ratio Total vehicle accidents
Repair costs - under excess claims Repair costs - over excess claims
~
131
132 Annual Report 2011-12
Strategy measures: Result
Target
Status
Strategy: Pro-actively consult and partner with internal and external customers to effectively deliver people services that cultivate a productive culture and promote sound workplace relations Average time lost per injury
14
10
~
Strategy: Pro-actively consult and partner with internal and external customers to effectively deliver people services that cultivate a productive culture and promote sound workplace relations HR Policies reviewed in accordance with the Policy Register
100%
100%
Strategy: Pro-actively consult and partner with internal and external customers to deliver effective health and safety programs and injury management services to the organisation Lost time injury frequency rate
0
34
Average time lost per injury
8.62
10
Compliance measured by audit
100%
80%
Long Term Goal 5.3 Well maintained equipment Services provided:
Building maintenance - completed 4,856 maintenance projects Council building cleaning - cleaned all buildings daily Communications equipment administration – responded to 165 requests IT systems maintenance – responded to 2,607 requests Business Continuity – completed one Business Continuity Plan Security – managed contract monitoring of 29 facilities Security risk reviews – undertook 26 reviews Plant replacement - 23 plant purchases or replacements (YTD Total) Vehicle and plant maintenance - serviced 363 vehicles and items of plant
Initiatives completed: Reviewed effectiveness of existing security measures Completed cadastral database spatial accuracy verification project Completed mapping update data filtering project Commenced development of a web based mapping service Commenced investigation of wireless technology Commenced desktop replacement program Commenced implementing identity management In progress Commenced implementing Microsoft systems and servers Commenced implementing wider deployment of Jasper Reporting system Commenced update of the IT Disaster Recovery Plan Commenced implementing the EEO Management Plan for 2012-14
Service Standards Met
Improving Organisation
Initiatives completed: Investigated options for a new Salary System Commenced implementing online incident reporting Strategy measures: Result
Target
Status
Strategy: Safeguard Council’s assets staff and customers by coordinating effective and appropriate security arrangements Security Reviews completed Security incidents reported to the security coordinator within 24 hours
5
4
67%
70%
Strategy: Implement IT infrastructure applications and systems that are functional flexible cost-effective and environmentallyfriendly Customer requests resolved within SLA requirements
100%
85%
133
APPENDIX 1 Financials
136.
4. Independent Auditor's Reports: - On the Financial Statements (Sect 417 [2]) - On the Conduct of the Audit (Sect 417 [3])
62 64
General Purpose Financial Statements Overview (i)
These financial statements are General Purpose Financial Statements and cover the consolidated operations for Canterbury City Council.
(ii)
Canterbury City Council is a body politic of NSW, Australia - being constituted as a Local Government area by proclamation and is duly empowered by the Local Government Act (LGA) 1993 of NSW. Council's Statutory Charter is specified in Paragraph 8 of the LGA and includes; carrying out activities and providing goods, services & facilities appropriate to the current & future
needs of the Local community and of the wider public
responsibility for administering regulatory requirements under the LGA and other applicable legislation, & a role in the management, improvement and development of the resources of the local government area.
A description of the nature of Council's operations and its principal activities are provided in Note 2(b). (iii)
All figures presented in these financial statements are presented in Australian Currency.
(iv)
These financial statements were authorised for issue by the Council on 27/09/12. Council has the power to amend and reissue the financial statements.
page 1
Appendix 1 - Financials
Council’s Certificate [S.413(2)(C)]
page 2
137
Financial Statements 2012
138 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Income Statement
for the financial year ended 30 June 2012 Budget 2012
(1)
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
64,980 7,675 1,968 4,108 14,311 6,041
62,492 7,130 2,580 3,835 11,935 7,540
5
173
749
19
-
-
99,256
96,261
43,819 408 27,203 10,202 13,405
40,680 337 26,069 9,873 12,653
95,037
89,612
4,219
6,649
-
-
4,219
6,649
Net Operating Result attributable to Council Net Operating Result attributable to Minority Interests
4,219 -
6,649 -
Net Operating Result for the year before Grants and Contributions provided for Capital Purposes
(1,822)
$ '000
Notes
Income from Continuing Operations
64,633 7,028 1,975 3,987 11,750 3,862 93,235
Revenue: Rates & Annual Charges User Charges & Fees Interest & Investment Revenue Other Revenues Grants & Contributions provided for Operating Purposes Grants & Contributions provided for Capital Purposes Other Income: Net gains from the disposal of assets Net Share of interests in Joint Ventures & Associated Entities using the equity method
3b 3c 3d 3e,f 3e,f
Total Income from Continuing Operations Expenses from Continuing Operations
41,361 422 27,927 9,500 13,552
Employee Benefits & On-Costs Borrowing Costs Materials & Contracts Depreciation & Amortisation Impairment Other Expenses
92,762
Total Expenses from Continuing Operations
473
3a
4a 4b 4c 4d 4d 4e
Operating Result from Continuing Operations Discontinued Operations
-
Net Profit/(Loss) from Discontinued Operations
473
Net Operating Result for the Year
473 -
(3,389)
24
(891)
(1) Original Budget as approved by Council - refer Note 16
This Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying Notes.
page 3
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Statement of Comprehensive Income for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
$ '000
Notes
Net Operating Result for the year (as per Income statement) Other Comprehensive Income Gain (loss) on revaluation of I,PP&E Gain (loss) on revaluation of available-for-sale investments Gain (loss) on revaluation of other reserves Realised (gain) loss on available-for-sale investments recognised in P&L Realised (gain) loss from other reserves recognised in P&L Impairment (loss) reversal relating to I,PP&E Other Movements in Reserves (enter details here)
Total Other Comprehensive Income for the year
Total Comprehensive Income for the Year Total Comprehensive Income attributable to Council Total Comprehensive Income attributable to Minority Interests
This Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying Notes.
20b (ii) 20b (ii) 20b (ii) 20b (ii) 20b (ii) 20b (ii) 20b (ii)
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
4,219
6,649
-
58,208 -
-
58,208
4,219
64,857
4,219 -
64,857 -
page 4
139
Financial Statements 2012
140 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Balance Sheet as at 30 June 2012
$ '000
ASSETS Current Assets Cash & Cash Equivalents Investments Receivables Inventories Other Non-current assets classified as "held for sale" Total Current Assets Non-Current Assets Investments Receivables Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment Investments accounted for using the equity method Investment Property Intangible Assets Total Non-Current Assets
Notes
6a 6b 7 8 8 22
6b 7 9 19 14 25
TOTAL ASSETS LIABILITIES Current Liabilities Payables Borrowings Provisions Total Current Liabilities Non-Current Liabilities Borrowings Provisions Total Non-Current Liabilities
10 10 10
10 10
TOTAL LIABILITIES
Net Assets EQUITY
Retained Earnings Revaluation Reserves Council Equity Interest Minority Equity Interest
Total Equity
This Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying Notes.
20 20
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
12,658 22,000 4,739 229 358 39,984
10,267 17,000 5,346 271 990 33,874
13,000 1,256 814,517 42 828,815
18,000 1,328 805,496 60 824,884
868,799
858,758
11,952 746 20,194 32,892
10,788 741 17,715 29,244
7,434 340 7,774
5,208 392 5,600
40,666
34,844
828,133
823,914
409,517 418,616 828,133 -
405,298 418,616 823,914 -
828,133
823,914
page 5
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Statement of Changes in Equity for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
$ '000
Notes
Retained Reserves Earnings (Refer 20b)
Council Interest
Minority Interest
Total Equity
2012
Opening Balance (as per Last Year's Audited Accounts) a. Correction of Prior Period Errors b. Changes in Accounting Policies (prior year effects)
20 (c) 20 (d)
Revised Opening Balance (as at 1/7/11)
c. Net Operating Result for the Year
405,298 405,298
418,616 418,616
823,914 823,914
-
823,914 823,914
4,219
-
4,219
-
4,219
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
4,219
-
4,219
-
4,219
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
409,517
418,616
828,133
-
828,133
d. Other Comprehensive Income - Revaluations : IPP&E Asset Revaluation Rsve
20b (ii)
- Revaluations: Other Reserves
20b (ii)
- Transfers to Income Statement
20b (ii)
- Impairment (loss) reversal relating to I,PP&E
20b (ii)
- Other Movements (enter details here)
20b (ii)
Other Comprehensive Income Total Comprehensive Income (c&d) e. Distributions to/(Contributions from) Minority Interests f. Transfers between Equity
Equity - Balance at end of the reporting period
$ '000
Notes
Retained Reserves Earnings (Refer 20b)
Council Interest
-
Minority Interest
Total Equity
2011
Opening Balance (as per Last Year's Audited Accounts) a. Correction of Prior Period Errors b. Changes in Accounting Policies (prior year effects)
20 (c) 20 (d)
Revised Opening Balance (as at 1/7/10)
c. Net Operating Result for the Year
759,057
360,408
759,057 -
-
759,057
-
759,057
6,649
-
6,649
-
6,649
-
58,208 58,208
58,208 58,208
-
58,208 58,208
6,649
58,208
64,857
-
64,857
-
-
-
-
-
405,298
418,616
823,914
-
823,914
398,649 398,649
360,408
d. Other Comprehensive Income - Revaluations : IPP&E Asset Revaluation Rsve
20b (ii)
- Revaluations: Other Reserves
20b (ii)
- Transfers to Income Statement
20b (ii)
- Impairment (loss) reversal relating to I,PP&E
20b (ii)
- Other Movements (enter details here)
20b (ii)
Other Comprehensive Income Total Comprehensive Income (c&d) e. Distributions to/(Contributions from) Minority Interests f. Transfers between Equity
Equity - Balance at end of the reporting period
This Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying Notes.
page 6
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Financial Statements 2012
142 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Statement of Cash Flows
for the financial year ended 30 June 2012 Budget 2012
$ '000
Notes
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
64,731 8,308 2,143 22,242 2,048 7,200
62,473 7,814 2,102 22,905 1,610 7,723
(42,307) (28,828) (408) (1,648) (13,907)
(43,476) (29,725) (337) (1,068) (16,227)
19,573
13,794
7,000 1,112
9,000 743
(7,000) (20,525)
(17,000) (21,286)
(19,413)
(28,543)
Cash Flows from Operating Activities 64,633 7,028 1,975 15,612 3,987 (43,387) (23,630) (422) (17,215)
8,581
Receipts:
Rates & Annual Charges User Charges & Fees Investment & Interest Revenue Received Grants & Contributions Bonds, Deposits & Retention amounts received Other Payments:
Employee Benefits & On-Costs Materials & Contracts Borrowing Costs Bonds, Deposits & Retention amounts refunded Other Net Cash provided (or used in) Operating Activities
11b
Cash Flows from Investing Activities 464 (10,955)
(10,491)
Receipts:
Sale of Investment Securities Sale of Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment Payments:
Purchase of Investment Securities Purchase of Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment Net Cash provided (or used in) Investing Activities
Cash Flows from Financing Activities 3,000 (722)
2,278 368 51,058
51,426
Receipts:
3,000
Proceeds from Borrowings & Advances Payments:
(769)
Repayment of Borrowings & Advances
1,500 (606)
Net Cash Flow provided (used in) Financing Activities
2,231
894
Net Increase/(Decrease) in Cash & Cash Equivalents
2,391
(13,855)
Cash & Cash Equivalents - beginning of year
11a
10,267
24,122
Cash & Cash Equivalents - end of the year
11a
12,658
10,267
6b
35,000
35,000
47,658
45,267
plus:
Additional Information: plus:
Investments on hand - end of year
Total Cash, Cash Equivalents & Investments Please refer to Note 11 for information on the following: - Non Cash Financing & Investing Activities. - Financing Arrangements. This Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying Notes.
page 7
Financial Statements 2012
_
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) b. Different requirements on (a) Impairment of Assets relating to Not-For- Profit AASB 136 (IAS 36) and (b) AASB 116 (IAS 16) regarding accounting for the Revaluation of Assets.
The principal accounting policies adopted by Council in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are set out below in order to assist in its general understanding. Under Australian Accounting Standards (AASB's), accounting policies are defined as those specific principles, bases, conventions, rules and practices applied by a reporting entity (in this case Council) in preparing and presenting its financial statements.
(a) Basis of preparation (i) Background These financial statements are general purpose financial statements which have been prepared in accordance with;
Australian Accounting Standards.
Other authoritative pronouncements of Australian Accounting Standards Board.
Urgent Issues Group Interpretations.
Accordingly in preparing these financial statements and accompanying notes, Council has been unable to comply fully with International Accounting Standards, but has complied fully with Australian Accounting Standards. Under the Local Government Act (LGA), Regulations and Local Government Code of Accounting Practice & Financial Reporting, it should be noted that Councils in NSW only have a requirement to comply with Australian Accounting Standards. (iii) Basis of Accounting
the
These financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for: (i)
the Local Government Act (1993) & Regulation, and
financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss, available-for-sale financial assets and investment properties which are all valued at fair value,
the Local Government Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting.
(ii) the write down of any Asset on the basis of Impairment (if warranted) and
(ii) Compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs)
(iii) certain classes of Infrastructure, property, plant & equipment that are accounted for at fair valuation.
Because Australian Accounting Standards (AASB's) are sector neutral, some standards either:
The accrual basis of accounting has also been applied in their preparation.
(a) have
local Australian content and prescription that is specific to the Not-ForProfit sector (including Local Government) which are not in compliance with IFRS’s, or
(b) specifically exclude application by Not for
Profit entities.
Examples include; a. Excluding Local Government from applying AASB 120 (IAS 20) for Grant Accounting and AASB 118 (IAS 18) for Segment Reporting, &
(iv) Changes in Accounting Policies 12 Council’s accounting policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated. There have also been no changes in accounting policies when compared with previous financial statements unless otherwise stated [refer Note 20(d)].
page 9
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_
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) (v) Critical Accounting Estimates The preparation of financial statements requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates (in conformity with AASB's). Accordingly this requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Council's accounting policies. Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that may have a financial impact on the entity and that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. (vi) Financial Statements The council has applied the revised AASB 101 Presentation of Financial Statements which became effective on 1 January 2009. The revised standard requires the separate presentation of a statement of comprehensive income and a statement of changes in equity. All non-owner changes in equity must now be presented in the statement of comprehensive income. As a consequence, the Council had to change the presentation of its financial statements.
Comparative information had been represented so that it is also in conformity with the revised standard. (b) Revenue recognition Council recognises revenue when the amount of revenue can be reliably measured, it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to the entity and specific criteria have been met for each of the Council’s activities as described below. Council bases any estimates on historical results, taking into consideration the type of customer, the type of transaction and the specifics of each arrangement.
Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable. Revenue is measured on major income categories as follows: Rates, Annual Charges, Grants and Contributions Rates, annual charges, grants and contributions (including developer contributions) are recognised as revenues when the Council obtains control over the assets comprising these receipts. Control over assets acquired from rates and annual charges is obtained at the commencement of the rating year as it is an enforceable debt linked to the rateable property or, where earlier, upon receipt of the rates. A provision for the impairment on rates receivables has not been established as unpaid rates represent a charge against the rateable property that will be recovered when the property is next sold. Control over granted assets is normally obtained upon their receipt (or acquittal) or upon earlier notification that a grant has been secured, and is valued at their fair value at the date of transfer. Income from Contributions is recognised when the Council either obtains control of the contribution or the right to receive it, (i) it is probable that the economic benefits comprising the contribution will flow to the Council and (ii) the amount of the contribution can be measured reliably. Where grants or contributions recognised as revenues during the financial year were obtained on condition that they be expended in a particular manner or used over a particular period and those conditions were undischarged at balance date, the unused grant or contribution is disclosed in Note 3(g). Note 3(g) also discloses the amount of unused grant or contribution from prior years that was expended on Council’s operations during the current year. The Council has obligations to provide facilities from contribution revenues levied on developers under the provisions of S94 of the EPA Act 1979. Whilst Council generally incorporates these amounts as part of a Development Consents Order, such page 10
Financial Statements 2012
_
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) developer contributions are only recognised as income upon their physical receipt by Council, due to the possibility that individual Development Consents may not be acted upon by the applicant and accordingly would not be payable to Council. Developer contributions may only be expended for the purposes for which the contributions were required but the Council may apply contributions according to the priorities established in work schedules. A detailed Note relating to developer contributions can be found at Note 17. User Charges, Fees and Other Income User charges, fees and other income (including parking fees and fines) are recognised as revenue when the service has been provided, the payment is received, or when the penalty has been applied, whichever first occurs.
(c) The Trust Fund In accordance with the provisions of Section 411 of the Local Government Act 1993 (as amened), a separate and distinct Trust Fund is maintained to account for all money and property received by the Council in trust which must be applied only for purposes of or in accordance with the trusts relating to those monies. Trust monies and property subject to Council’s control have been include in these statements. Trust monies and property held by Council but not subject to the control of Council, have been excluded from these statements. A separate statement of monies held in the Trust Fund is available for inspection at the Council office by any person free of charge.
(d) Leases
A provision for the impairment of these receivables is recognised when collection in full is no longer probable.
All Leases entered into by Council are reviewed and classified on inception date as either a Finance Lease or an Operating Lease.
A liability is recognised in respect of revenue that is reciprocal in nature to the extent that the requisite service has not been provided as at balance date.
Finance Leases
and
Leases of property, plant and equipment where the Council has substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as finance leases.
The profit or loss on sale of an asset is determined when control of the asset has irrevocably passed to the buyer.
Finance leases are capitalised at the lease’s inception at the lower of the fair value of the leased property and the present value of the minimum lease payments.
Sale of Infrastructure, Equipment
Property,
Plant
Interest and Rents Rents are recognised as revenue on a proportional basis when the payment is due, the value of the payment is notified, or the payment is received, whichever first occurs. Interest Income from Cash & Investments is accounted for using the Effective Interest method in accordance with AASB 139.
The corresponding rental obligations, net of finance charges, are included in borrowings. Each lease payment is allocated between the liability outstanding and the recognition of a finance charge. The interest element of the finance charge is costed to the income statement over the lease period so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability for each period. Property, plant and equipment acquired under finance leases are depreciated over the shorter of each leased asset’s useful life and the lease term. page 11
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_
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) Operating Leases Leases in which a significant portion of the risks and rewards of ownership are retained by the lessor are classified as operating leases. Payments made under operating leases (net of any incentives received from the lessor) are charged to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease.
Each classification depends on the purpose/intention for which the investment was acquired & at the time it was acquired. Management determines each Investment classification at the time of initial recognition and reevaluates this designation at each reporting date. (i) Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
Lease income from operating leases is recognised in income on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss include financial assets that are “held for trading”.
(e) Cash and Cash Equivalents
A financial asset is classified in the “held for trading” category if it is acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the short term.
Cash and cash equivalents includes; cash on hand, deposits held at call with financial institutions, other short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities on the balance sheet but are incorporated into Cash & Cash Equivalents for presentation of the Cash Flow Statement.
(f) Investments and Other Financial Assets Council (in accordance with AASB 139) classifies each of its investments into one of the following categories for measurement purposes: financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, loans and receivables, held-to-maturity investments, and available-for-sale financial assets.
Derivatives are classified as held for trading unless they are designated as hedges. Assets in this category are primarily classified as current assets as they are primarily held for trading &/or are expected to be realised within 12 months of the balance sheet date. (ii) Loans and receivables Loans and receivables are non derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. They arise when the Council provides money, goods or services directly to a debtor with no intention (or in some cases ability) of selling the resulting receivable. They are included in current assets, except for those with maturities greater than 12 months after the balance sheet date which are classified as noncurrent assets. (iii) Held-to-maturity investments Held-to-maturity investments are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments and fixed maturities that the Council’s management has the positive intention and ability to hold to maturity. In contrast to the “Loans & Receivables” classification, these investments are generally quoted in an active market.
page 12
Financial Statements 2012
_
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) Held-to-maturity financial assets are included in noncurrent assets, except for those with maturities less than 12 months from the reporting date, which are classified as current assets. (iv) Available-for-sale financial assets Available-for-sale financial assets are nonderivatives that are either designated in this category or not classified in any of the other categories. Investments must be designated as available-forsale if they do not have fixed maturities and fixed or determinable payments and management intends to hold them for the medium to long term. Accordingly, this classification principally comprises marketable equity securities, but can include all types of financial assets that could otherwise be classified in one of the other investment categories. They are generally included in non-current assets unless management intends to dispose of the investment within 12 months of the balance sheet date or the term to maturity from the reporting date is less than 12 months. General Accounting & Measurement of Financial Instruments: (i) Initial Recognition Investments are initially recognised (and measured) at fair value, plus in the case of investments not at “fair value through profit or loss”, directly attributable transactions costs Purchases and sales of investments are recognised on trade-date - the date on which the Council commits to purchase or sell the asset. Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from the financial assets have expired or have been transferred and the Council has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership. (ii) Subsequent Measurement Available-for-sale financial assets and financial assets at fair value through profit and loss are subsequently carried at fair value.
Loans and receivables and held-to-maturity investments are carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Realised and unrealised gains and losses arising from changes in the fair value of the financial assets classified as “fair value through profit or loss” category are included in the income statement in the period in which they arise. Unrealised gains and losses arising from changes in the fair value of non monetary securities classified as "available-for-sale" are recognised in equity in the available-for-sale investments revaluation reserve. When securities classified as "available-for-sale" are sold or impaired, the accumulated fair value adjustments are included in the income statement as gains and losses from investment securities. (iii) Types of Investments Council has an approved Investment Policy in order to undertake its investment of money in accordance with (and to comply with) Section 625 of the Local Government Act and S212 of the LG (General) Regulation 2005. Investments are placed and managed in accordance with the Policy and having particular regard to authorised investments prescribed under the Ministerial Local Government Investment Order. Council maintains its investment Policy in compliance with the Act and ensures that it or its representatives exercise care, diligence and skill that a prudent person would exercise in investing Council funds. Council amended its policy following revisions to the Ministerial Local Government Investment Order arising from the Cole Inquiry recommendations. Certain investments that Council holds are no longer prescribed (eg. managed funds, CDOs, and equity linked notes), however they have been retained under grandfathering provisions of the Order. These will be disposed of when most financially advantageous to Council.
(g) Fair value estimation The fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities must be estimated for recognition and measurement or for disclosure purposes. page 13
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_
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) The fair value of financial instruments traded in active markets is based on quoted market prices at the balance sheet date. The fair value of financial instruments that are not traded in an active market is determined using valuation techniques. Council uses a variety of methods and makes assumptions that are based on market conditions existing at each balance date. Quoted market prices or dealer quotes for similar instruments are used for long-term debt instruments held. If the market for a financial asset is not active (and for unlisted securities), the Council establishes fair value by using valuation techniques. These include reference to the fair values of recent arm’s length transactions, involving the same instruments or other instruments that are substantially the same, discounted cash flow analysis, and option pricing models refined to reflect the issuer’s specific circumstances. The nominal value less estimated credit adjustments of trade receivables and payables are assumed to approximate their fair values. The fair value of financial liabilities for disclosure purposes is estimated by discounting the future contractual cash flows at the current market interest rate that is available to the Council for similar financial instruments.
(h) Receivables Receivables are initially recognised at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost, less any provision for impairment. Receivables (excluding Rates & Annual Charges) are generally due for settlement no more than 30 days from the date of recognition. The collectibility of receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis. Debts which are known to be uncollectible are written off in accordance with Council’s policy.
A provision for impairment (ie. an allowance account) relating to receivables is established when there is objective evidence that the Council will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of each receivable. The amount of the provision is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the effective interest rate. Impairment losses are recognised in the Income Statement within other expenses. When a receivable for which an impairment allowance had been recognised becomes uncollectible in a subsequent period, it is written off against the allowance account. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against other expenses in the income statement.
(i) Inventories Raw Materials and Stores, Work in Progress and Finished Goods Raw materials and stores, work in progress and finished goods in respect of business undertakings are all stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost comprises direct materials, direct labour and an appropriate proportion of variable and fixed overhead expenditure, the latter being allocated on the basis of normal operating capacity. Costs are assigned to individual items of inventory on the basis of weighted average costs. Inventories held in respect of non-business undertakings have been valued at cost subject to adjustment for loss of service potential. Land Held for Resale/Capitalisation of Borrowing Costs Land held for resale is stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value.
page 14
Financial Statements 2012
_
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) Cost is assigned by specific identification and includes the cost of acquisition, and development and borrowing costs during development. When development is completed borrowing costs and other holding charges are expensed as incurred. Borrowing costs included in the cost of land held for resale are those costs that would have been avoided if the expenditure on the acquisition and development of the land had not been made.
Initial Recognition On initial recognition, an assets cost is measured at its fair value, plus all expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition. Where settlement of any part of an asset’s cash consideration is deferred, the amounts payable in the future are discounted to their present value as at the date of recognition (ie. date of exchange) of the asset to arrive at fair value.
Borrowing costs incurred while active development is interrupted for extended periods are recognised as expenses.
The discount rate used is the Council’s incremental borrowing rate, being the rate at which a similar borrowing could be obtained from an independent financier under comparable terms and conditions.
(j) Infrastructure, Property, Plant and Equipment (I,PP&E)
Where infrastructure, property, plant and equipment assets are acquired for no cost or for an amount other than cost, the assets are recognised in the financial statements at their fair value at acquisition date - being the amount that the asset could have been exchanged between knowledgeable willing parties in an arm’s length transaction.
Acquisition of assets Council’s non current assets have been progressively revalued to fair value in accordance with a staged implementation as advised by the Division of Local Government. At balance date, the following classes of I,PP&E were stated at their Fair Value; -
Investment Properties – refer Note 1(p),
-
Operational Land (External
-
Buildings – Specialised/Non Specialised
-
Valuation)
(External Valuation)
Plant and Equipment
Subsequent costs Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to Council and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to the income statement during the financial period in which they are incurred.
(as approximated by depreciated historical cost)
Asset Revaluations (including Indexation)
-
Roads Assets incl. roads, bridges & footpaths
In accounting for Asset Revaluations relating to Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment:
-
Drainage Assets (External
-
Community Land (External
-
Land Improvements
-
Other Structures
-
Other Assets
(External Valuation)
Valuation) Valuation from VG)
(as approximated by depreciated historical cost)
(as approximated by depreciated historical cost) (as approximated by depreciated historical cost)
Increases in the carrying amounts arising on revaluation are credited to the asset revaluation reserve. To the extent that the increase reverses a decrease previously recognised via the profit or loss, then increase is first recognised in profit or loss. Decreases that reverse previous increases of the same asset are first charged against revaluation page 15
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Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) reserves directly in equity to the extent of the remaining reserve attributable to the asset, with all other decreases charged to the Income statement. Water and sewerage network assets are indexed annually between full revaluations in accordance with the latest indices provided in the NSW Office of Water - Rates Reference Manual. For all other assets, Council assesses at each reporting date whether there is any indication that a revalued asset’s carrying amount may differ materially from that which would be determined if the asset were revalued at the reporting date. If any such indication exists, Council determines the asset’s fair value and revalues the asset to that amount. Full revaluations are undertaken for all assets on a 5 year cycle. Capitalisation Thresholds Items of infrastructure, property, plant and equipment are not capitalised unless their cost of acquisition exceeds the following; Land - council land - open space - land under roads (purchases after 30/6/08)
100% Capitalised 100% Capitalised 100% Capitalised
Plant & Equipment Office Furniture Office Equipment Other Plant &Equipment
> $1,000 > $1,000 > $1,000
Buildings & Land Improvements Park Furniture & Equipment
> $1,000
Building - construction/extensions - renovations Other Structures Stormwater Assets Drains & Culverts Other
100% Capitalised > $1,000 > $1,000
> $1,000 > $1,000
Transport Assets Road construction & reconstruction Reseal/Re-sheet & major repairs:
> $10,000 > $10,000
Bridge construction & reconstruction
> $10,000
Depreciation Depreciation on Council's infrastructure, property, plant and equipment assets is calculated using the straight line method in order to allocate an assets cost (net of residual values) over its estimated useful life. Land is not depreciated. Estimated useful lives for Council's I,PP&E include: Plant & Equipment - Office Equipment - Office furniture - Computer Equipment - Vehicles - Heavy Plant/Road Making equip. - Other plant and equipment
5 to 10 years 5 to 20 years 5 years 5 years 6 years 5 to 10 years
Other Equipment - Playground equipment - Benches, seats etc
5 to 15 years 10 to 20 years
Buildings - Buildings : Masonry - Buildings : Other
50 to 100 years 20 to 40 years
Stormwater Drainage - Drains - Culverts
80 to 100 years 50 to 80 years
Transportation Assets - Sealed Roads : Surface - Sealed Roads : Structure - Unsealed roads
15 to 25 years 20 to 50 years 10 to 20 years
- Bridge : Concrete - Bridge : Other
80 years 50 years
- Road Pavements - Kerb, Gutter & Paths
70 years 50 years
Other Infrastructure Assets - Bulk earthworks
Infinite
page 16
Financial Statements 2012
_
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) All asset residual values and useful lives are reviewed and adjusted (where appropriate), at each balance sheet date.
(m) Intangible Assets
An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated recoverable amount – refer Note 1(s) on Asset Impairment.
Costs incurred in developing products or systems and costs incurred in acquiring software and licenses that will contribute to future period financial benefits through revenue generation and/or cost reduction are capitalised to software and systems.
Disposal and De-recognition
Costs capitalised include external direct costs of materials and service, direct payroll and payroll related costs of employees’ time spent on the project.
An item of property, plant and equipment is derecognised upon disposal or when no further future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal.
IT Development and Software
Amortisation is calculated on a straight line bases over periods generally ranging from 3 to 5 years.
Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in Council’s Income Statement in the year the asset is derecognised.
IT development costs include only those costs directly attributable to the development phase and are only recognised following completion of technical feasibility and where Council has an intention and ability to use the asset.
(k) Land
(n) Crown Reserves
Land (other than Land under Roads) is in accordance with Part 2 of Chapter 6 of the Local Government Act (1993) classified as either Operational or Community.
Crown Reserves under Council’s care and control are recognised as assets of the Council.
This classification of Land is disclosed in Note 9(a).
(l) Land under roads Land under roads is land under roadways and road reserves including land under footpaths, nature strips and median strips. Council has elected not to recognise land under roads acquired before 1 July 2008 in accordance with AASB 1051. Land under roads acquired after 1 July 2008 is recognised in accordance with AASB 116 – Property, Plant and Equipment. Council will review the recognition of all land under roads when the valuation methodology has been determined by the industry and is, in the meantime, collecting the necessary physical data to undertake the valuation.
While ownership of the reserves remains with the Crown, Council retains operational control of the reserves and is responsible for their maintenance and use in accordance with the specific purposes to which the reserves are dedicated. Improvements on Crown Reserves are also recorded as assets, while maintenance costs incurred by Council and revenues relating the reserves are recognised within Council’s Income Statement. Representations are currently being sought across State and Local Government to develop a consistent accounting treatment for Crown Reserves across both tiers of government.
(o) Investment property Investment property comprises land &/or buildings that are principally held for long-term rental yields, capital gains or both that is not occupied by Council.
page 17
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Financial Statements 2012
152 Annual Report 2011-12
_
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) Investment property is carried at fair value, representing an open-market value determined annually by external valuers. Annual changes in the fair value of Investment Properties are recorded in the Income Statement as part of “Other Income”. Full revaluations are carried out every three years with an appropriate index utilised each year in between the full revaluations.
(p) Payables These amounts represent liabilities and include goods and services provided to the Council prior to the end of financial year which are unpaid. The amounts for goods and services are unsecured and are usually paid within 30 days of recognition.
(q) Borrowings Borrowings are initially recognised at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Borrowings are subsequently measured at amortised cost. Amortisation results in any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption amount being recognised in the Income Statement over the period of the borrowings using the effective interest method. Borrowings are removed from the balance sheet when the obligation specified in the contract is discharged, cancelled or expired. Borrowings are classified as current liabilities unless the Council has an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least 12 months after the balance sheet date.
(r) Borrowing costs Borrowing costs are expensed.
(s) Provisions Provisions for legal claims, service warranties and other like liabilities are recognised when: Council has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events; it is more likely than not that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation; and the amount has been reliably estimated. Provisions are not recognised for future operating losses. Where there are a number of similar obligations, the likelihood that an outflow will be required in settlement is determined by considering the class of obligations as a whole. A provision is recognised even if the likelihood of an outflow with respect to any one item included in the same class of obligations may be small. Provisions are measured at the present value of management’s best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the present obligation at the reporting date. The discount rate used to determine the present value reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability. The increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognised as interest expense.
(t) Employee benefits (i) Short Term Obligations Short term employee benefit obligations include liabilities for wages and salaries (including nonmonetary benefits), annual leave and vesting sick leave expected to be settled within the 12 months after the reporting period. Leave liabilities are recognised in the provision for employee benefits in respect of employees’ services up to the reporting date with other short term page 18
Financial Statements 2012
_
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) employee benefit payables..
obligations
disclosed
under
These provisions are measured at the amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities are settled. Liabilities for non vesting sick leave are recognised at the time when the leave is taken and measured at the rates paid or payable, and accordingly no Liability has been recognised in these reports. Wages & salaries, annual leave and vesting sick leave are all classified as Current Liabilities. (ii) Other Long Term Obligations The liability for all long service and annual leave (which is not expected to be settled within the 12 months after the reporting period) are recognised in the provision for employee benefits in respect of services provided by employees up to the reporting date. These liabilities are measured at the present value of the expected future payments to be made using the projected unit credit method. Consideration is given to expected future wage and salary levels, experience of employee departures and periods of service. Expected future payments are then discounted using market yields at the reporting date based on national government bonds with terms to maturity and currency that match as closely as possible the estimated future cash outflows. Due to the nature of when and how Long Service Leave can be taken, all Long Service Leave for employees with 4 or more years of service has been classified as Current, as it has been deemed that Council does not have the unconditional right to defer settlement beyond 12 months – even though it is not anticipated that all employees with more than 4 years service (as at reporting date) will apply for and take their leave entitlements in the next 12 months. (iii) Retirement benefit obligations All employees of the Council are entitled to benefits on retirement, disability or death.
Council contributes to various defined benefit plans and defined contribution plans on behalf of its employees. Defined Benefit Plans A liability or asset in respect of defined benefit superannuation plans would ordinarily be recognised in the balance sheet, and measured as the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the reporting date plus unrecognised actuarial gains (less unrecognised actuarial losses) less the fair value of the superannuation fund’s assets at that date and any unrecognised past service cost. The present value of the defined benefit obligation is based on expected future payments which arise from membership of the fund to the reporting date, calculated annually by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit method. Consideration is given to expected future wage and salary levels, experience of employee departures and periods of service. However, when this information is not reliably available, Council can account for its obligations to defined benefit plans on the same basis as its obligations to defined contribution plans – i.e. as an expense when they become payable. Council is party to an Industry Defined Benefit Plan under the Local Government Superannuation Scheme, named the “Local Government Superannuation Scheme – Pool B” This Scheme has been deemed to be a “multi employer fund” for the purposes of AASB 119. Sufficient information is not available to account for the Scheme as a defined benefit plan (in accordance with AASB 119) because the assets to the scheme are pooled together for all Councils. Accordingly, Council’s contributions to the scheme for the current reporting year have been recognised as an expense and disclosed as part of Superannuation Expenses at Note 4(a). The Local Government Superannuation Scheme has advised member councils that, as a result of the global financial crisis, it has a significant deficiency of assets over liabilities amounting to around $4,806 million at 30 June 2012.
page 19
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Financial Statements 2012
154 Annual Report 2011-12
_
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) As a result, they have asked for significant increases in future contributions to recover that deficiency. Council’s share of that deficiency cannot be accurately calculated as the Scheme is a mutual arrangement where assets and liabilities are pooled together for all member councils. For this reason, no liability for the deficiency has been recognised in these financial statements. Council has, however, disclosed a contingent liability in note 18 to reflect the possible obligation that may arise should the Scheme require immediate payment to correct the deficiency. Defined Contribution Plans Contributions to Defined Contribution Plans are recognised as an expense as they become payable. Prepaid contributions are recognised as an asset to the extent that a cash refund or a reduction in the future payments is available. (iv) Employee Benefit On-Costs Council has recognised at year end the aggregate on-cost liabilities arising from employee benefits, and in particular those on-cost liabilities that will arise when payment of current employee benefits is made in future periods. These amounts include Superannuation and Workers Compensation expenses which will be payable upon the future payment of certain Leave Liabilities accrued as at 30/6/12.
(u) Self insurance Council does not self insure.
(v) Allocation between current and non-current assets & liabilities In the determination of whether an asset or liability is classified as current or non-current, consideration is given to the time when each asset or liability is expected to be settled.
The asset or liability is classified as current if it is expected to be settled within the next 12 months, being the Council’s operational cycle. Exceptions In the case of liabilities where Council does not have the unconditional right to defer settlement beyond 12 months (such as vested long service leave), the liability is classified as current even if not expected to be settled within the next 12 months. In the case of inventories that are “held for trading”, these are also classified as current even if not expected to be realised in the next 12 months.
(w) Taxes The Council is exempt from both Commonwealth Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax. Council does however have to comply with both Fringe Benefits Tax and Goods and Services Tax (GST). Goods & Services Tax (GST) Income, expenses and assets are all recognised net of the amount of GST, except where the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable from the Australian Tax Office (ATO). In these circumstances the GST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the revenue / expense. Receivables and payables within the Balance Sheet are stated inclusive of any applicable GST. The net amount of GST recoverable from or payable to the ATO is included as a current asset or current liability in the Balance Sheet. Operating cash flows within the Cash Flow Statement are on a gross basis, ie. they are inclusive of GST where applicable. Investing and Financing cash flows are treated on a net basis (where recoverable form the ATO), ie. they are exclusive of GST. Instead, the GST component of investing and financing activity cash flows which
page 20
Financial Statements 2012
_
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) are recoverable from or payable to the ATO are classified as operating cash flows. Commitments and contingencies are disclosed net of the amount of GST recoverable from (or payable to) the ATO.
(x) New accounting standards and UIG interpretations Certain new (or amended) accounting standards and interpretations have been published that are not mandatory for reporting periods ending 30 June 2012. Council has not adopted any of these standards early. Council’s assessment of the impact of these new standards and interpretations is set out below. Applicable to implications:
Local
Government
with
AASB 9 Financial Instruments, AASB 2009 11 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 9 and AASB 20107 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 9 (December 2010) (effective from 1 January 2013) AASB 9 Financial Instruments addresses the classification, measurement and derecognition of financial assets and financial liabilities. The standard is not applicable until 1 January 2013 but is available for early adoption. Council has yet to assess its full impact. When adopted, the standard will affect in particular the Council’s accounting for its available-for-sale financial assets, since AASB 9 only permits the recognition of fair value gains and losses in other comprehensive income if they relate to equity investments that are not held for trading. Fair value gains and losses on available-for-sale debt investments, for example, will therefore have to be recognised directly in profit or loss.
Applicable to Local Government implications for Council;
but
no
AASB 2009-2008 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – Group Cash- Settled Share-base Payment Transactions [AASB 2] (effective from 1 January 2012) The amendments made by the AASB to AASB 2 confirm that an entity receiving goods or services in a share group-based payment arrangement must recognise an expense for those goods or services regardless of which entity in the group settles the transaction or whether the transaction is settled in shares or cash. They also clarify how the group share-base payment arrangement should be measured, that is, whether it is measured as an equity or a cash-settled transaction. AASB 2009-10 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards- Classification of Rights Issues [AASB 132] (effective from 1 February 2010) In October 2009 the AASB issued an amendment to AASB 132 Financial Instruments: Presentation which addresses the accounting rights issues that are denominated in a currency other then the functional currency of the issuer. Provided certain outcomes conditions are met, such rights issues are now classified as equity regardless of the currency in which the exercise price is denominated. Previously, these issues had to be account for as derivative liabilities. The amendment must be applied retrospectively in accordance with AASB 108 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors. AASB Interpretation 19 Extinguishing financial liabilities with equity instruments and AASB 2009-13 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from Interpretation 19 (effective from 1 July 2010) AASB Interpretation 19 clarifies the accounting when an entity renegotiates the terms of it’s debt with the result that the liability is extinguished by the debtor issuing its own equity instruments to the creditor (debt for equity swap). page 21
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Financial Statements 2012
156 Annual Report 2011-12
_
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) It requires a gain or loss to be recognised in profit or loss which is measured as the difference between the carrying amount of the financial liability and the fair value of the equity instruments issued. AASB 2009 14 Amendments to Australian Interpretation – Prepayments of a Minimum Funding Requirement (effective from 1 January 2011) In December 2009, the AASB made an amendment to Interpretation 14 The Limit on a Defined Benefit Asset, Minimum Funding Requirements and their Interaction. The amendment removes an unintended consequence of the interpretation related to voluntary prepayments when there is a minimum funding requirement in regard to the entity's defined benefit scheme. It permits entities to recognise an asset for a prepayment of contributions made to cover minimum funding requirements. Council does not make any such prepayments. AASB 2010-6 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – Disclosures on Transfers of Financial Assets (effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 July 2011) Amendments made to AASB 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures in November 2010 introduce additional disclosures in respect of risk exposures arising from transferred financial assets. The amendments will affect particularly entities that sell, factor, securitise, lend or otherwise transfer financial assets to other parties. They are not expected to have any significant impact on Council's disclosures. Applicable to Local Government but not relevant to Council at this stage; None. Not applicable to Local Government per se; Revised AASB 124 Related Party Disclosures and AASB 2009 12 Amendments to Australian
Accounting Standards (effective from 1 January 2011) In December 2009 the AASB issued a revised AASB 124 Related Party Disclosures. It is effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2011 and must be applied retrospectively. The amendment clarifies and simplifies the definition of a related party and removes the requirement for government-related entities to disclose details of all transactions with the government and other government-related entities. AASB 1053 Application of Tiers of Australian Accounting Standards and AASB 2010-2 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from Reduced Disclosure Requirements (effective from 1 July 2013) On 30 June 2010 the AASB officially introduced a revised differential reporting framework in Australia. Under this framework, a two-tier differential reporting regime applies to all entities that prepare general purpose financial statements. Local Government are specifically excluded from adopting the new Australian Accounting Standards – Reduced Disclosure Requirements. AASB 2010-8 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – Deferred Tax: Recovery of Underlying Assets (effective from 1 January 2012) In December 2010, the AASB amended AASB 112 Income Taxes to provide a practical approach for measuring deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets when investment property is measured using the fair value model. AASB 112 requires the measurement of deferred tax assets or liabilities to reflect the tax consequences that would follow from the way management expects to recover or settle the carrying amount of the relevant assets or liabilities, that is through use or through sale. Council is not subject to Income Tax and accordingly this amendment will have no impact on future financial statements. page 22
Financial Statements 2012
_
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued) (y) Rounding of amounts Unless otherwise indicated, amounts in the financial statements have been rounded off to the nearest thousand dollars.
(z) Comparative Figures To ensure comparability with the current reporting period’s figures, some comparative period line items and amounts may have been reclassified or individually reported for the first time within these financial statements and/or the notes.
(aa) Disclaimer Nothing contained within these statements may be taken to be an admission of any liability to any person under any circumstance.
page 23
157
93,235 99,256
57,816 96,261
55,151 92,762
-
92,762
41,110
41,440
37,027
56,208
5,549 36,175 1,773 1,338 474 7,739 21,598 16,011 1,253 852
Original Budget 2012
6 8,776 1,187 473 16,626 6,204 3,473 3,627 622 116
Actual 2011
87 7,220 1,393 571 17,238 6,754 3,991 3,407 660 119
Actual 2012
95,037
-
95,037
5,010 42,409 1,812 1,310 17,521 7,653 3,973 11,514 3,087 748
Actual 2012
89,612
-
89,612
1,548 40,016 3,090 1,250 17,430 7,289 3,966 11,370 2,808 845
Actual 2011
Expenses from Continuing Operations
115 2,582 1,848 564 16,798 6,725 4,354 3,031 980 30
Original Budget 2012
Income from Continuing Operations
473
56,208
(55,735)
(5,434) (33,593) 75 (774) 16,324 (1,014) (17,244) (12,980) (273) (822)
Original Budget 2012
4,219
57,816
(53,597)
(4,923) (35,189) (419) (739) (283) (899) 18 (8,107) (2,427) (629)
Actual 2012
6,649
55,151
(48,502)
(1,542) (31,240) (1,903) (777) (804) (1,085) (493) (7,743) (2,186) (729)
Actual 2011
Operating Result from Continuing Operations
17,653
8,192
9,461
3,189 28 1,212 4,324 114 513 61 20
Actual 2012
17,123
6,566
868,799
-
868,799
13,872 152,152 2,375 1 1,109 100,068 3,755 54,959 540,504 4
5,327 1 30 3,766 889 453 91 10,557
2011
2012
858,758
-
858,758
28,020 114,764 133 1 1,593 73,623 253 9,349 631,018 4
Actual
Actual
Total Assets held (Current & Non-current)
Actual 2011
Grants included in Income from Continuing Operations
Details of these Functions/Activities are provided in Note 2(b).
Income, Expenses and Assets have been directly attributed to the following Functions / Activities.
1. Includes: Rates & Annual Charges (incl. Ex-Gratia), Untied General Purpose Grants & Unrestricted Interest & Investment Income.
General Purpose Income 1 Operating Result from Continuing Operations
Share of gains/(losses) in Associates & Joint Ventures (using the Equity Method)
Total Functions & Activities
Governance Administration Public Order & Safety Health Environment Community Services & Education Housing & Community Amenities Water Supplies Sewerage Services Recreation & Culture Fuel & Energy Agriculture Mining, Manufacturing & Construction Transport & Communication Economic Affairs
Functions/Activities
$ '000
Note 2(a). Council Functions / Activities - Financial Information
for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Notes to the Financial Statements
Canterbury City Council 158 Annual Report 2011-12 Financial Statements 2012
page 24
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 2(b). Council Functions / Activities - Component Descriptions Details relating to the Council's functions / activities as reported in Note 2(a) are as follows: GOVERNANCE Costs relating to the Council’s role as a component of democratic government, including elections, members’ fees and expenses, subscriptions to local authority associations, meetings of council and policy making committees, area representation and public disclosure and compliance. ADMINISTRATION Corporate Support and Other Support Services (not otherwise attributed to the listed functions / activities). PUBLIC ORDER & SAFETY Fire protection, animal control, beach control, enforcement of local government regulations, emergency services, other. HEALTH Inspection, immunisations, food control, health centres, other, administration. ENVIRONMENT Noxious plants and insect/vermin control, other environmental protection, solid waste management, street cleaning, drainage, stormwater management. COMMUNITY SERVICES & EDUCATION Administration, family day care, child care, youth services, other family and children, aged and disabled, migrant services, Aboriginal services, other community services, education. HOUSING & COMMUNITY AMENITIES Housing, town planning, street lighting, other sanitation and garbage, public cemeteries, public conveniences, other community amenities. WATER SUPPLIES SEWERAGE SERVICES RECREATION & CULTURE Public libraries, museums, art galleries, community centres, public halls, other cultural services, swimming pools, sporting grounds, parks and gardens (lakes), other sport and recreation. FUEL & ENERGY - Gas Supplies MINING, MANUFACTURING & CONSTRUCTION Building control, abattoirs, quarries & pits, other. TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATION Urban roads, sealed rural roads, unsealed rural roads, bridges, footpaths, aerodromes, parking areas, bus shelters and services, water transport, RTA works, other. ECONOMIC AFFAIRS Camping areas, caravan parks, tourism and area promotion, industrial development promotion, saleyards and markets, real estate development, commercial nurseries, other business undertakings. page 25
159
Financial Statements 2012
160 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 3. Income from Continuing Operations $ '000
Notes
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
38,267 10,624 48,891
37,125 10,247 47,372
15,208 785 96 16,089
14,283 744 93 15,120
64,980
62,492
(a). Rates & Annual Charges Ordinary Rates Residential Business Total Ordinary Rates Special Rates Nil Annual Charges (pursuant to s.496, s.496A, s.496B, s.501 & s.611) Domestic Waste Management Services Waste Management Services (non-domestic) Section 611 Charges Total Annual Charges
TOTAL RATES & ANNUAL CHARGES
Council has used 2008 year valuations provided by the NSW Valuer General in calculating its rates.
page 26
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 3. Income from Continuing Operations $ '000
(continued)
Notes
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
15 15
7 7
326 1,166 3 116 227 133 65 28 16 2,080
326 944 2 62 187 136 80 27 6 1,770
2,464 2,398 285 374 21 25 13 5,580
2,332 2,405 147 377 22 51 19 5,353
7,675
7,130
(b). User Charges & Fees Specific User Charges (per s.502 - Specific "actual use" charges) Domestic Waste Management Services Total User Charges Other User Charges & Fees (i) Fees & Charges - Statutory & Regulatory Functions (per s.608)
Inspection Services Planning & Building Regulation POEO Act Section 68 Fees Section 149 Certificates (EPA Act) Section 603 Certificates Section 735A Certificates Town Planning Other Total Fees & Charges - Statutory/Regulatory (ii) Fees & Charges - Other (incl. General User Charges (per s.608)
Aquatic / Fitness Centre Child Care Chargable Works Leaseback Fees - Council Vehicles Photocopiers Tennis Courts Other Total Fees & Charges - Other
TOTAL USER CHARGES & FEES
page 27
161
Financial Statements 2012
162 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 3. Income from Continuing Operations
(continued)
$ '000
Notes
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
250 1,718
195 2,385
(c). Interest & Investment Revenue (incl. losses) Interest & Dividends - Interest on Overdue Rates & Annual Charges - Interest earned on Investments (interest & coupon payment income)
TOTAL INTEREST & INVESTMENT REVENUE
1,968
2,580
Unrestricted Investments/Financial Assets: Overdue Rates & Annual Charges (General Fund) General Council Cash & Investments
250 631
195 1,213
Restricted Investments/Funds - External: Development Contributions - Section 94 Domestic Waste Management operations Unspent Special Purpose Grants
754 144 87
835 185 152
102 1,968
2,580
1,039 1,543 41 159 23 146 631 15 108 7 396
1,080 1,329 54 107 88 151 138 31 113 4 383 357
Interest Revenue is attributable to:
Restricted Investments/Funds - Internal: Internally Restricted Assets Total Interest & Investment Revenue Recognised
(d). Other Revenues Rental Income - Other Council Properties Fines Commissions & Agency Fees Floodlighting Insurance Claim Recoveries Kiosk Other Contributions to Works Sales - General Telephone Towers Training Income Workers Comp Rebate Other
TOTAL OTHER REVENUE
4,108
3,835
page 28
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 3. Income from Continuing Operations $ '000
(continued)
2012 Operating
2011 Operating
2012 Capital
2011 Capital
5,968 1,229 995 8,192
4,633 930 1,003 6,566
-
-
335 41 50 2,952 296 280 20 272 55 28 398 61 459 381 92 5,720 13,912
328 35 62 2,623 236 55 327 30 269 36 64 531 372 14 4,982 11,548
115 1,615 268 802 871 70 3,741 3,741
86 3,624 532 543 761 29 5,575 5,575
11,148 2,733 31 13,912
9,367 2,160 21 11,548
1,615 2,125 1 3,741
3,880 1,695 5,575
(e). Grants General Purpose (Untied) Financial Assistance - General Component Financial Assistance - Local Roads Component Pensioners' Rates Subsidies - General Component Total General Purpose Specific Purpose Pensioners' Rates Subsidies: - Domestic Waste Management Aged Care Bus Route Subsidy Child Care Relief Children Service Community Centres Economic Development Environmental Protection Family Day Care Flood Restoration Immunisation Library - per capita Library - special projects Regional Local Govt Infrastructure Programme Road Safety Salary Subsidy Street Lighting Transport (Roads to Recovery) Transport (Other Roads & Bridges Funding) Waste & Sustainability - Parent Other Total Specific Purpose
Total Grants
Grant Revenue is attributable to:
- Commonwealth Funding - State Funding - Other Funding
page 29
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Financial Statements 2012
164 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 3. Income from Continuing Operations $ '000
(continued)
2012 Operating
2011 Operating
2012 Capital
2011 Capital
-
-
2,300 2,300
1,965 1,965
399 399
387 387
-
-
(f). Contributions Developer Contributions: (s93 & s94 - EP&A Act, s64 of the NSW LG Act):
S 94 - Contributions towards amenities/services Total Developer Contributions 17 Other Contributions: RMS Contributions (Regional Roads, Block Grant) Total Other Contributions
Total Contributions
399
387
2,300
1,965
14,311
11,935
6,041
7,540
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
28,776
31,917
4,151
3,539
less: Grants & contributions recognised in a previous reporting period now spent:
(9,422)
(6,680)
Net Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Assets during the Period
(5,271)
(3,141)
TOTAL GRANTS & CONTRIBUTIONS
$ '000
(g). Restrictions relating to Grants and Contributions Certain grants & contributions are obtained by Council on condition that they be spent in a specified manner: Unexpended at the Close of the Previous Reporting Period add: Grants & contributions recognised in the current period but not yet spent:
Unexpended and held as Restricted Assets Comprising: - Specific Purpose Unexpended Grants - Developer Contributions
23,505
28,776
1,807 21,698 23,505
4,315 24,461 28,776
page 30
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 4. Expenses from Continuing Operations $ '000
Notes
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
28,488 147 14 9,222 2,250 1,683 1,902 203 287 94 50 67 39 44,446 (627)
28,247 230 14 6,564 2,288 2,055 1,268 223 207 90 50 164 35 41,435 (755)
(a) Employee Benefits & On-Costs Salaries and Wages Employee Termination Costs Travelling Employee Leave Entitlements (ELE) Superannuation - Defined Contribution Plans Superannuation - Defined Benefit Plans Workers' Compensation Insurance Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) Training Costs (other than Salaries & Wages) Protective Clothing Uniforms Recruitment Costs Other Total Employee Costs less: Capitalised Costs
TOTAL EMPLOYEE COSTS EXPENSED
Number of "Equivalent Full Time" Employees at year end
43,819
40,680
531
539
408 408 408
337 337 337
408
337
(b) Borrowing Costs (i) Interest Bearing Liability Costs Interest on Loans Total Interest Bearing Liability Costs less: Capitalised Costs Total Interest Bearing Liability Costs Expensed (ii) Other Borrowing Costs Nil
TOTAL BORROWING COSTS EXPENSED
page 31
165
Financial Statements 2012
166 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 4. Expenses from Continuing Operations (continued) $ '000
Notes
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
6,353 1,502 690 1,389 1,382 13,276 54
5,903 1,382 1,416 1,291 1,000 12,241 58
90 420
92 307
1,691 234 36 86 27,203 -
1,877 258 19 225 26,069 -
(c) Materials & Contracts Raw Materials & Consumables Contractor & Consultancy Costs - Consultancies/Studies - Contractors - Family Day Care - Labourers - Waste Disposals Auditors Remuneration (1) Legal Expenses: - Legal Expenses: Planning & Development - Legal Expenses: Other Operating Leases: - Operating Lease Rentals: Minimum Lease Payments (2) Catering Photographs Other Total Materials & Contracts less: Capitalised Costs
TOTAL MATERIALS & CONTRACTS
27,203
26,069
54 54
58 58
23 1,625 43 1,691
171 1,671 35 1,877
1. Auditor Remuneration During the year, the following fees were incurred for services provided by the Council's Auditor (& the Auditors of other Consolidated Entities): (i) Audit and Other Assurance Services
- Audit & review of financial statements: Council's Auditor Total Auditor Remuneration
2. Operating Lease Payments are attributable to:
Computers Motor Vehicles Other
page 32
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 4. Expenses from Continuing Operations (continued)
$ '000
Notes
Impairment Costs Actual Actual 2012 2011
Depreciation/Amortisation Actual Actual 2012 2011
(d) Depreciation, Amortisation & Impairment Plant and Equipment Office Equipment Furniture & Fittings Land Improvements (depreciable) Buildings - Non Specialised Buildings - Specialised Other Structures Infrastructure: - Roads, Bridges & Footpaths - Stormwater Drainage Other Assets - Library Books - Other Intangible Assets Total Depreciation & Impairment Costs less: Capitalised Costs less: Impairments (to)/from ARR [Equity]
TOTAL DEPRECIATION & IMPAIRMENT COSTS EXPENSED
25
9a
-
-
1,057 1,044 136 128 1,188 703 442
1,184 933 127 119 1,222 594 422
-
-
4,470 464
4,417 411
-
-
412 114 44 10,202 -
311 131 2 9,873 -
-
-
10,202
9,873
page 33
167
Financial Statements 2012
168 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 4. Expenses from Continuing Operations (continued) $ '000
Notes
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
226 150 181 40 156 578 69 1,368 13 162 516 944 186 193 292 178 1,467 202 1,260 178 527 131 548 1,900 218 663 205 469 13,405 -
194 168 121 92 138 509 42 1,347 36 167 563 785 270 185 161 182 1,411 249 1,075 166 504 49 577 1,841 242 717 212 440 12,653 -
(e) Other Expenses Other Expenses for the year include the following: Advertising Agents Commissions Animal Impounding Bad & Doubtful Debts Bank Charges Cleaning Collection Costs Contributions/Levies to Other Levels of Government - NSW Fire Brigade Levy Councillor Expenses - Mayoral Fee Councillor Expenses - Councillors' Fees Donations, Contributions & Assistance to other organisations (Section 356) Electricity & Heating Equipment (minor) Gas Charges Hire Expenses Infringement Processing Costs Insurance Library Stock Office Expenses (including computer expenses) Postage Printing & Stationery Repairs & Maintenance Security Street Lighting Subscriptions & Publications Telephone & Communications Valuation Fees Water Rates & Charges Total Other Expenses less: Capitalised Costs
TOTAL OTHER EXPENSES
13,405
12,653
page 34
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 5. Gains or Losses from the Disposal of Assets $ '000
Property (excl. Investment Property)
Proceeds from Disposal - Property less: Carrying Amount of Property Assets Sold / Written Off Net Gain/(Loss) on Disposal
Plant & Equipment
Proceeds from Disposal - Plant & Equipment less: Carrying Amount of P&E Assets Sold / Written Off Net Gain/(Loss) on Disposal
Financial Assets*
Proceeds from Disposal / Redemptions / Maturities - Financial Assets less: Carrying Amount of Financial Assets Sold / Redeemed / Matured Net Gain/(Loss) on Disposal
NET GAIN/(LOSS) ON DISPOSAL OF ASSETS
Notes
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
141 141
510 510
461 (429) 32
638 (399) 239
7,000 (7,000) -
9,000 (9,000) -
173
749
page 35
169
Financial Statements 2012
170 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 6a. - Cash Assets and Note 6b. - Investment Securities
$ '000
Notes
Cash & Cash Equivalents (Note 6a)
Cash on Hand and at Bank Cash-Equivalent Assets1 - Deposits at Call Total Cash & Cash Equivalents
Investment Securities (Note 6b)
- Long Term Deposits - NCD's, FRN's (with Maturities > 3 months) - CDO's - Capital Protected Notes Total Investment Securities
TOTAL CASH ASSETS, CASH EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS
1
2012
2012
2011
2011
Actual Current
Actual Non Current
Actual Current
Actual Non Current
3,158
-
10,267
-
9,500 12,658
-
10,267
-
18,000 3,000 1,000 22,000
2,000 1,000 3,000 7,000 13,000
11,000 3,000 3,000 17,000
2,000 4,000 5,000 7,000 18,000
34,658
13,000
27,267
18,000
12,658
-
10,267
-
22,000 22,000
13,000 13,000
17,000 17,000
18,000 18,000
17,000 7,000 (7,000) 5,000 22,000
18,000 (5,000) 13,000
5,000 15,000 (9,000) 6,000 17,000
22,000 2,000 (6,000) 18,000
18,000 3,000 1,000 22,000
2,000 1,000 3,000 7,000 13,000
11,000 3,000 3,000 17,000
2,000 4,000 5,000 7,000 18,000
Those Investments where time to maturity (from date of purchase) is < 3 mths.
Cash, Cash Equivalents & Investments were classified at year end in accordance with AASB 139 as follows: Cash & Cash Equivalents a. "At Fair Value through the Profit & Loss" Investments a. "Held to Maturity"
Investments
Note 6(b-i) Reconciliation of Investments classified as "Held to Maturity" Balance at the Beginning of the Year Additions Disposals (sales & redemptions) Transfers between Current/Non Current
Balance at End of Year Comprising: - Long Term Deposits - NCD's, FRN's (with Maturities > 3 months) - CDO's - Capital Protected Notes
Total
6(b-ii)
page 36
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 6c. Restricted Cash, Cash Equivalents & Investments - Details
$ '000
Total Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investment Securities attributable to:
External Restrictions (refer below) Internal Restrictions (refer below) Unrestricted
2012 $ '000
2012
2012
2011
2011
Actual Current
Actual Non Current
Actual Current
Actual Non Current
34,658
13,000
27,267
18,000
16,449 16,130 2,079 34,658
13,000 13,000
14,886 10,883 1,498 27,267
18,000 18,000
Opening Balance
Transfers to Restrictions
24,461 4,315 4,110 32,886 32,886
3,054 1,097 1,834 5,985 5,985
(5,817) (3,605) (9,422) (9,422)
21,698 1,807 5,944 29,449 29,449
1,100 2,215 2,300 87 385 2,650 1,415 428 110 193 10,883
384 77 2,693 3 200 2,151 2,932 500 15 7 8,962
(2,300) (1,415) (3,715)
1,484 2,292 2,693 90 585 4,801 2,932 500 443 110 200 16,130
43,769
14,947
(13,137)
45,579
Transfers from Restrictions
Closing Balance
Details of Restrictions External Restrictions - Included in Liabilities
Nil
External Restrictions - Other
Developer Contributions - General (D) Specific Purpose Unexpended Grants (F)
Domestic Waste Management (G)
External Restrictions - Other Total External Restrictions Internal Restrictions
Builders Security Deposits Car Park Provisions Committed Works Constructions & Buildings Election Funding Employees Leave Entitlement Financial Assistance Grant Infrastructure Renewal Levy Open Space Property Acquisition Organisational Development S94 Contributions
Total Internal Restrictions TOTAL RESTRICTIONS
D Development contributions which are not yet expended for the provision of services and amenities in accordance
with contributions plans (refer Note 17).
F Grants which are not yet expended for the purposes for which the grants were obtained. (refer Note 1) G Water, Sewerage, Domestic Waste Management (DWM) & other Special Rates/Levies/Charges are externally
restricted assets and must be applied for the purposes for which they were raised.
page 37
171
Financial Statements 2012
172 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 7. Receivables $ '000
2012
Notes
Purpose Rates & Annual Charges Interest & Extra Charges User Charges & Fees Capital Debtors (being sale of assets) - Other Asset Sales Accrued Revenues - Interest on Investments Government Grants & Subsidies Net GST Receivable Child Services Other Debtors Total less: Provision for Impairment
User Charges & Fees Total Provision for Impairment - Receivables
TOTAL NET RECEIVABLES Externally Restricted Receivables Domestic Waste Management Other - Government Grants & Subsidies
Total External Restrictions Internally Restricted Receivables Nil Internally Restricted Receivables Unrestricted Receivables TOTAL NET RECEIVABLES
2011
Current
Non Current
Current
Non Current
2,030 217 814
902 354 -
1,778 197 884
905 423 -
-
-
510
-
454 733 649 35 101 5,033
1,256
580 1,588 227 34 5,798
1,328
(294) (294)
-
-
(452) (452)
4,739
1,256
5,346
1,328
478
-
442
-
478
-
1,588 2,030
-
4,261
1,256
3,316
1,328
4,739
1,256
5,346
1,328
Notes on Debtors above: (i) Rates & Annual Charges Outstanding are secured against the property. (ii) Doubtful Rates Debtors are provided for where the value of the property is less than the debt outstanding. An allowance for other doubtful debts is made when there is objective evidence that a receivable is impaired. (iii) Interest was charged on overdue rates & charges at 11.00% (2011 9.00%). Generally all other receivables are non interest bearing. (iv) Please refer to Note 15 for issues concerning Credit Risk and Fair Value disclosures. page 38
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 8. Inventories & Other Assets $ '000
2012
2011
Current
Non Current
Current
Non Current
Inventories Stores & Materials Total Inventories
229 229
-
271 271
-
Other Assets Prepayments Total Other Assets
358 358
-
990 990
-
587
-
1,261
-
Notes
TOTAL INVENTORIES / OTHER ASSETS Externally Restricted Assets There are no restrictions applicable to the above assets.
page 39
173
7,037 1,274
1,080,223
4,968
652,826 76,661
91,826 98,042 2,170 12,642 45,127 59,692 8,906
11,321 10,875 1,824
Fair Value
-
-
-
4,968 -
Cost
At
279,695
5,283 740
149,450 43,277
2,160 22,359 35,179 2,925
8,000 8,863 1,459
Dep'n
-
-
-
-
-
Impairment
Accumulated
371 6 19,611
805,496
5,864 -
647 1,501 2,408 454 1,365 959 693
4,314 665 245 119
Asset Additions
1,754 534
503,376 33,384
91,826 98,042 2,170 10,482 22,768 24,513 5,981
4,968 3,321 2,012 365
Value
Carrying
(429)
-
-
-
(428) (1) -
WDV of Asset Disposals
(10,158)
(412) (114)
(4,470) (464)
(128) (1,188) (703) (442)
(1,057) (1,044) (136)
-
27
3
(5) 6 (2) 1 -
(34) 1
Depreciation Adjustments Expense & Transfers
Asset Movements during the Reporting Period
Additions to Depreciable Land Improvements, Buildings, Other Structures & Infrastructure Assets are made up of Asset Renewals ($6,663) and New Assets ($1,072). Renewals are defined as the replacement of existing assets (as opposed to the acquisition of new assets).
TOTAL INFRASTRUCTURE, PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIP.
- Library Books - Other
Other Assets:
- Roads, Bridges, Footpaths - Stormwater Drainage
Infrastructure:
- Operational Land - Community Land Land Improvements - non depreciable Land Improvements - depreciable Buildings - Non Specialised Buildings - Specialised Other Structures
Land:
Capital Work in Progress Plant & Equipment Office Equipment Furniture & Fittings
$ '000
At
as at 30/6/2011
Note 9a. Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment
for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Notes to the Financial Statements
Canterbury City Council
9,282
-
-
-
9,282 -
Cost
At
1,084,332
3,485 1,268
658,690 76,664
92,473 99,543 4,573 13,101 46,492 60,648 9,285
10,996 5,995 1,119
Fair Value
At
279,097
1,772 815
153,920 43,741
2,287 23,549 35,878 3,053
8,495 4,817 770
Dep'n
1,713 453 814,517
-
504,770 32,923
92,473 99,543 4,573 10,814 22,943 24,770 6,232
9,282 2,501 1,178 349
Value
Carrying
-
-
-
-
Impairment
Accumulated
as at 30/6/2012
174 Annual Report 2011-12
Financial Statements 2012
page 40
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 9b. Externally Restricted Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment $ '000
Notes
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
Council has no Externally Restricted Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment.
Note 9c. Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment - Current Year Impairments Actual
Actual
Council has recognised no impairment losses during the reporting period nor reversed any prior period losses.
page 41
175
Financial Statements 2012
176 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 10a. Payables, Borrowings & Provisions $ '000
2012
Notes
Payables
Goods & Services - operating expenditure Goods & Services - capital expenditure Payments Received In Advance Accrued Expenses: - Other Expenditure Accruals Security Bonds, Deposits & Retentions Payroll Liabilities Other Total Payables
Borrowings
Loans - Secured 1 Total Borrowings
2011
Current
Non Current
Current
Non Current
3,200 480 267
-
2,147 1,371 314
-
772 5,992 1,203 38 11,952
-
5,592 554 65 10,788
-
746 746
7,434 7,434
741 741
5,208 5,208
3,840 2,881 10,586 1,194 1,693 20,194
311 29 340
3,711 2,684 8,853 1,046 1,421 17,715
361 31 392
32,892
7,774
29,244
5,600
Provisions Employee Benefits;
Annual Leave Sick Leave Long Service Leave Gratuities ELE On-Costs Total Provisions
Total Payables, Borrowings & Provisions (i) Liabilities relating to Restricted Assets Externally Restricted Assets
Domestic Waste Management Liabilities relating to externally restricted assets
2012
2011
Current
Non Current
Current
Non Current
3,173 3,173
-
1,635 1,635
-
3,173
-
1,635
-
Internally Restricted Assets
Nil Total Liabilities relating to restricted assets
1.
Loans are secured over the General Rating Income of Council Disclosures on Liability Interest Rate Risk Exposures, Fair Value Disclosures & Security can be found in Note 15. page 42
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 10a. Payables, Borrowings & Provisions
(continued)
$ '000
2012
2011
14,677 4,000 18,677
14,575 4,000 18,575
(ii) Current Liabilities not anticipated to be settled within the next 12 months The following Liabilities, even though classified as current, are not expected to be settled in the next 12 months. Provisions - Employees Benefits Payables - Security Bonds, Deposits & Retentions
Note 10b. Description of and movements in Provisions 2011 Class of Provision Annual Leave Sick Leave Long Service Leave Gratuities ELE On-Costs
TOTAL
Opening Balance as at 1/7/11
3,711 2,684 9,214 1,046 1,452 18,107
2012 Additional Decrease due to Provisions Payments
3,147 310 2,474 148 270 6,349
(3,090) (136) (1,006) (4,232)
Remeasurement effects due to Discounting
72 23 215 310
Unused amounts reversed
-
Closing Balance as at 30/6/12
3,840 2,881 10,897 1,194 1,722 20,534
a. Employees Leave Entitlements & On-Costs represents those benefits accrued and payable and an estimate of those that will become payable in the future as a result of past service.
page 43
177
Financial Statements 2012
178 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 11. Statement of Cash Flows - Additional Information $ '000
Notes
(a) Reconciliation of Cash Assets
Total Cash & Cash Equivalent Assets Less Bank Overdraft BALANCE as per the STATEMENT of CASH FLOWS
6a 10
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
12,658 12,658
10,267 10,267
4,219
6,649
10,202 (173)
9,873 (749)
327 (158) 42 632 1,053 27 975 2,427
2,067 92 (40) (760) (1,003) 267 372 (2,974)
(b) Reconciliation of Net Operating Result to Cash provided from Operating Activities Net Operating Result from Income Statement Adjust for non cash items:
Depreciation & Amortisation Net Losses/(Gains) on Disposal of Assets +/- Movement in Operating Assets and Liabilities & Other Cash Items:
Decrease/(Increase) in Receivables Increase/(Decrease) in Provision for Doubtful Debts Decrease/(Increase) in Inventories Decrease/(Increase) in Other Assets Increase/(Decrease) in Payables Increase/(Decrease) in other accrued Expenses Payable Increase/(Decrease) in Other Liabilities Increase/(Decrease) in Employee Leave Entitlements NET CASH PROVIDED FROM/(USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES from the STATEMENT of CASH FLOWS
19,573
13,794
(c) Non-Cash Investing & Financing Activities Nil
(d) Financing Arrangements Nil
page 44
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 12. Commitments for Expenditure $ '000
Notes
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
284 284
2,926 2,926
284 284
2,926 2,926
284 284
2,926 2,926
1,696 56 1,752
1,849 84 1,933
(a) Capital Commitments (exclusive of GST) Capital expenditure committed for at the reporting date but not recognised in the financial statements as liabilities: Property, Plant & Equipment Buildings Total Commitments These expenditures are payable as follows:
Within the next year Later than one year and not later than 5 years Later than 5 years Total Payable
Sources for Funding of Capital Commitments:
Externally Restricted Reserves Total Sources of Funding
(b) Finance Lease Commitments Nil
(c) Operating Lease Commitments (Non Cancellable) a. Commitments under Non Cancellable Operating Leases at the Reporting date, but not recognised as Liabilities are payable: Within the next year Later than one year and not later than 5 years Later than 5 years Total Non Cancellable Operating Lease Commitments
b. Non Cancellable Operating Leases include the following assets: Motor Vehicles, Computer Equipment, Office Equipment Contingent Rentals may be payable depending on the condition of items or usage during the lease term. Conditions relating to Operating Leases: - All Operating Lease Agreements are secured only against the Leased Asset. - No Lease Agreements impose any financial restrictions on Council regarding future debt etc.
page 45
179
Financial Statements 2012
180 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 13a(i). Statement of Performance Measurement - Indicators (Consolidated) $ '000
Amounts 2012
Indicator 2012
Prior Periods 2011 2010
23,057 11,042
2.09 : 1
1.88
1.52
1,177 87,096
1.35%
1.13%
0.46%
64,980 99,256
65.47%
64.92%
66.25%
3,503 68,533
5.11%
5.01%
5.10%
6,663 6,825
97.63%
70.92%
71.71%
Local Government Industry Indicators 1. Unrestricted Current Ratio
Current Assets less all External Restrictions (1) Current Liabilities less Specific Purpose Liabilities
(2,3)
2. Debt Service Ratio Debt Service Cost Income from Continuing Operations excluding Capital Items & Specific Purpose Grants/Contributions
3. Rates & Annual Charges Coverage Ratio Rates & Annual Charges Income from Continuing Operations
4. Rates, Annual Charges, Interest & Extra Charges Outstanding Percentage Rates, Annual & Extra Charges Outstanding Rates, Annual & Extra Charges Collectible
5. Building & Infrastructure Renewals Ratio
Asset Renewals(4) Depreciation, Amortisation & Impairment
Notes (1)
Refer Notes 6-8 inclusive. Also excludes any Real Estate & Land for resale not expected to be sold in the next 12 months
(2)
Refer to Note 10(a).
(3)
Refer to Note 10(a)(ii) - excludes all payables & provisions not expected to be paid in the next 12 months (incl. ELE).
(4)
Asset Renewals represent the replacement &/or refurbishment of existing assets to an equivalent capacity/performance as opposed to the acquisition of new assets (or the refurbishment of old assets) that increases capacity/performance. Asset Renewals include building and infrastructure assets only. page 46
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
181
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 14. Investment Properties $ '000
Notes
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
Council has not classified any Land or Buildings as "Investment Properties"
Note 15. Financial Risk Management Risk Management Council's activities expose it to a variety of financial risks including (1) price risk, (2) credit risk, (3) liquidity risk and (4) interest rate risk. The Council's overall risk management program focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to minimise potential adverse effects on the financial performance of the Council. Council does not engage in transactions expressed in foreign currencies and is therefore not subject to foreign currency risk. Financial risk management is carried out by Council's Finance Section under policies approved by the Council. A comparison by category of the carrying amounts and fair values of Council's Financial Assets & Financial Liabilities recognised in the financial statements is presented below. Carrying Value 2012 2011
Fair Value 2012 2011
Financial Assets Cash and Cash Equivalents Investments - "Held to Maturity" Receivables Total Financial Assets
12,658
10,267
12,658
10,267
35,000 5,995 53,653
35,000
32,265 5,995 50,918
31,343 6,674
Financial Liabilities Payables Loans / Advances Total Financial Liabilities
11,685 8,180 19,865
6,674
51,941
10,474 5,949
16,423
11,685 8,180 19,865
48,284
10,474 5,949
16,423
Fair Value is determined as follows: - Cash & Cash Equivalents, Receivables, Payables - are estimated to be the carrying value which approximates mkt value. - Borrowings & Held to Maturity Investments - are based upon estimated future cash flows discounted by the current market interest rates applicable to assets & liabilities with similar risk profiles, unless quoted market prices are available. - Financial Assets classified (i) "at fair value through profit & loss" or (ii) Available for Sale - are based upon quoted market prices (in active markets for identical investments) at the reporting date or independent valuation. page 47
Financial Statements 2012
182 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 15. Financial Risk Management
(continued)
$ '000
(a) Fair Value Measurements The fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities must be estimated in accordance with Accounting Standards for either recognition and measurement requirements or for disclosure purposes. AASB 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures, requires the disclosure of how fair valuations have been arrived at for all financial assets and financial liabilities that have been measured at fair value. Arriving at fair values for financial assets & liabilities can be broken up into 3 distinct measurement hierarchies: Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (as prices) or indirectly (derived from prices) Level 3: Inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs) The following table presents the financial assets and financial liabilities that have been measured & recognised at fair values: 2012 Financial Assets Investments - Other ("Held to Maturity") Total Financial Assets
2011 Financial Assets Investments - Other ("Held to Maturity") Total Financial Assets
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
32,265 32,265
-
-
-
32,265
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
31,343 31,343
-
-
-
31,343
32,265
31,343
page 48
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 15. Financial Risk Management
(continued)
$ '000
(b) Cash & Cash Equivalents, Financial assets 'at fair value through the profit & Loss' "Available-for-sale" financial assets & "Held-to-maturity" Investments Council's objective is to maximise its return on cash & investments whilst maintaining an adequate level of liquidity and preserving capital. Council's Finance area manages the Cash & Investments portfolio with the assistance of independent advisors. Council has an Investment Policy which complies with the Local Government Act & Minister's Investment Order. This Policy is regularly reviewed by Council and it's staff and an Investment Report is tabled before Council on a monthly basis setting out the portfolio breakup and its performance. The major risk associated with Investments is price risk - the risk that the capital value of Investments may fluctuate due to changes in market prices, whether there changes are caused by factors specific to individual financial instruments or their issuers or are caused by factors affecting similar instruments traded in a market. Cash & Investments are also subject to interest rate risk - the risk that movements in interest rates could affect returns and income. A further risk associated with Cash & Investments is credit risk - the risk that the investment counterparty) will not complete their obligations particular to a financial instrument, resulting in a financial loss to Council - be it of a capital or income nature. Council manages these risks (amongst other measures) by diversifying its portfolio and only purchasing investments with high credit ratings or capital guarantees. Council also seeks advice from independent advisers before placing any funds in Cash Equivalents & Investments.
The following represents a summary of the sensitivity of Council's Income Statement and Accumulated Surplus (for the reporting period) due to a change in either the price of a financial asset or the interest rates applicable. It is assumed that the change in interest rates would have been constant throughout the reporting period.
2012 Possible impact of a 10% movement in Market Values Possible impact of a 1% movement in Interest Rates 2011 Possible impact of a 10% movement in Market Values Possible impact of a 1% movement in Interest Rates
Increase of Values/Rates Profit Equity
517
517
350
350
Decrease of Values/Rates Profit Equity
(517)
(517)
(350)
(350)
page 49
183
Financial Statements 2012
184 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 15. Financial Risk Management
(continued)
$ '000
(c) Receivables Council's major receivables comprise (i) Rates & Annual charges and (ii) User Charges & Fees. The major risk associated with these receivables is credit risk - the risk that debts due and payable to Council may not be repaid in full. Council manages this risk by monitoring outstanding debt and employing stringent debt recovery procedures. It also encourages ratepayers to pay their rates by the due date through incentives. Credit risk on rates and annual charges is minimised by the ability of Council to secure a charge over the land relating to the debts - that is, the land can be sold to recover the debt. Council is also able to charge interest on overdue rates & annual charges at higher than market rates which further encourages the payment of debt. The level of outstanding receivables is reported to Council monthly and benchmarks are set and monitored for acceptable collection performance. Council makes suitable provision for doubtful receivables as required and carries out credit checks on most non-rate debtors. There are no material receivables that have been subjected to a re-negotiation of repayment terms. A profile of Council's receivables credit risk at balance date follows:
(i) Ageing of Receivables Current (not yet overdue) Past due by up to 30 days Past due between 31 and 180 days Past due between 181 and 365 days Past due by more than 1 year
(ii) Movement in Provision for Impairment of Receivables Balance at the beginning of the year + new provisions recognised during the year - amounts already provided for & written off this year Balance at the end of the year
2012 Rates & Annual Charges
2,030 902 2,932
2012 Other Receivables
1,990 286 727 354 3,357
2011 Rates & Annual Charges
Other Receivables
2012
2011
452 (158) 294
360 92 452
1,778 905 2,683
2011
2,270 346 1,125 21 681 4,443
page 50
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 15. Financial Risk Management
(continued)
$ '000
(d) Payables & Borrowings Payables & Borrowings are both subject to liquidity risk - the risk that insufficient funds may be on hand to meet payment obligations as and when they fall due. Council manages this risk by monitoring its cash flow requirements and liquidity levels and maintaining an adequate cash buffer. Payment terms can (in extenuating circumstances) also be extended & overdraft facilities utilised as required. The contractual undiscounted cash outflows (ie. principal and interest) of Council's Payables & Borrowings are set out in the Liquidity Table below: $ '000
Subject to no
payable in: 1-2 Yrs
2-3 Yrs
3-4 Yrs
Total
Actual
Cash
Carrying
Outflows
Values
maturity
â&#x2030;¤ 1 Year
Trade/Other Payables Loans & Advances
5,992
5,693
-
-
-
-
-
11,685
11,685
-
1,292
4,223
630
1,468
412
2,050
10,075
8,180
Total Financial Liabilities
5,992
6,985
4,223
630
1,468
412
2,050
21,760
19,865
2011 Trade/Other Payables Loans & Advances
5,592
4,882
-
-
-
-
-
10,474
10,474
-
1,139
862
861
861
861
3,531
8,115
5,949
Total Financial Liabilities
5,592
6,021
862
861
861
861
3,531
18,589
16,423
4-5 Yrs
> 5 Yrs
2012
Borrowings are also subject to interest rate risk - the risk that movements in interest rates could adversely affect funding costs & debt servicing requirements. Council manages this risk through the diversification of borrowing types, maturities & interest rate structures. The following interest rates were applicable to Council's Borrowings at balance date: Trade/Other Payables Loans & Advances - Fixed Interest Rate
2012 Carrying Average Value Interest Rate
2011 Carrying Average Value Interest Rate
0.0%
0.0%
11,685 8,180 19,865
6.7%
10,474 5,949 16,423
5.9%
page 51
185
Financial Statements 2012
186 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 16. Material Budget Variations $ '000
Council's Original Financial Budget for 11/12 was adopted by the Council on 26 May 2011. While the Income Statement included in this General Purpose Financial Report must disclose the Original Budget adopted by Council, the Local Government Act requires Council to review its Financial Budget on a Quarterly Basis, so that it is able to manage the various variations between actuals versus budget that invariably occur throughout the year. This Note sets out the details of MATERIAL VARIATIONS between Council's Original Budget and its Actual results for the year as per the Income Statement - even though such variations may have been adjusted for during each Quarterly Budget Review. Note that for Variations* of Budget to Actual :
Material Variations represent those variances that amount to 10% or more of the original budgeted figure.
F = Favourable Budget Variation, U = Unfavourable Budget Variation
$ '000
REVENUES Rates & Annual Charges
2012 Budget
2012 Actual
2012 ---------- Variance* ----------
64,633
64,980
347
1%
F
User Charges & Fees
7,028
7,675
647
9%
F
Interest & Investment Revenue
1,975
1,968
(0%)
U
Other Revenues
3,987
4,108
121
3%
F
11,750
14,311
2,561
22%
F
56%
F
0%
F
Operating Grants & Contributions
(7)
We received $2,932K of the 12/13 Financial Assistance Grant prior to 30 June 2012 [LY = $1,415k]. $679k of the remaining variance relates to an under estimate of the 11/12 Financial Assistance Grant.
Capital Grants & Contributions
3,862
6,041
2,179
We received the balance of the Commonwealth Government RLCIP grants totaling $1,615k. This was not in the original budget as the project was carried forward from the prior year.
Net Gains from Disposal of Assets
-
173
173
page 52
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 16. Material Budget Variations $ '000
EXPENSES Employee Benefits & On-Costs
(continued) 2012 Budget
2012 Actual
2012 ---------- Variance* ----------
(6%)
U
14
3%
F
27,203
724
3%
F
9,500
10,202
(702)
(7%)
U
13,552
13,405
147
1%
F
Budget Variations relating to Council's Cash Flow Statement include: 8,581 19,573 Cash Flows from Operating Activities
10,992
128.1%
F
Borrowing Costs Materials & Contracts Depreciation & Amortisation Other Expenses
41,361
43,819
422
408
27,927
(2,458)
The operating Surplus was $3,747k higher then budget, largely due to the advance payment of the Financial Assistance Grant. $5,224k cash flow from operations related to movements in operating assets and liabilities where the original budget forecast a decrease of $91,395k. The net effect if this is an increase in cash flow of $6,619k.
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
(10,491)
(19,413)
(8,922)
85.0%
U
The $8,821k variance relates to the completion of major capital works programs which were carried forward from the previous year and therefore not included in the original budget.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
2,278
2,231
(47)
(2.1%)
U
page 53
187
Total Contributions
S94 not under Plans
Total S94 Revenue Under Plans
S94A Levies - under a Plan
S94 Contributions - under a Plan
Drainage Roads Traffic Facilities Parking Open Space Community Facilities Recreation Facilities Amenities Administration Other
PURPOSE
24,461
-
2,300
-
2,300
16,695 -
-
-
-
7,766
-
2,300
16,695
-
Non Cash
27 25 1,145 606 191 160 146 -
Cash
received during the Year
Contributions
80 708 8,543 5,360 1,471 215 318 -
Balance
Opening
SUMMARY OF CONTRIBUTIONS & LEVIES
754
173
581
-
581
3 25 299 188 50 6 10 -
in Year
earned
Interest
(5,817)
(5,656)
(161)
-
(161)
(6) (80) (75) -
Year
during
Expenditure
2,283 21,698
-
19,415
-
-
19,415
104 758 9,987 6,154 1,632 381 399 -
-
Asset
Restricted
Borrowing (to)/from
Held as
Internal
Internal
2,200
-
(19,004)
(1,689)
(17,315)
(319) -
2,200
(1,537) (515)
-
-
4,894
594
-
-
-
-
-
4,300
-
(134) 80
95
-
554
3,601
-
54 50
-
(708) (8,586) (5,600)
-
-
(50)
-
due/(payable)
Borrowings
-
Funding
(under)
Cumulative
2,200
outstanding
still
Over or
-
income
Future
Exp
Projections
The following tables detail the receipt, interest and use of the above contributions & levies and the value of all remaining funds which are "restricted" in their future use.
Council recovers contributions, raises levies & enters into planning agreements on development works that are subject to a development consent issued by Council. All contributions must be spent/utilised for the specific purpose they were levied and any interest applicable to unspent funds must be attributed to remaining funds.
$ '000
Note 17. Statement of Developer Contributions
for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Notes to the Financial Statements
Canterbury City Council 188 Annual Report 2011-12 Financial Statements 2012
page 54
25 1,145 606 191 160 146 2,300
1,471 215 318
16,695
Drainage Parking Open Space Recreation Facilities Total
PURPOSE -
7,378 55
7,766
Cash
-
-
Non Cash
173
1 2 170
(5,656)
(494) (2,983) (2,179)
-
180 (2,304) 2,124
(to)/from
in Year
Borrowing
Internal
-
Year
(161)
during
-
earned
581
-
-
-
Expenditure
188 50 6 10
-
(6)
(to)/from
Borrowing
Internal
Interest
3 25 299
-
received during the Year
21 312
Balance
Opening
Contributions
27
80 (80) (75)
Year
Non Cash
in Year
Cash
during
earned
received during the Year
Expenditure
Interest
(continued)
Contributions
708 8,543 5,360
Balance
Opening
S94 CONTRIBUTIONS - NOT UNDER A PLAN
Traffic Facilities Parking Open Space Community Facilities Recreation Facilities Amenities Administration Total
PURPOSE
CONTRIBUTION PLAN NUMBER 1
S94 CONTRIBUTIONS - UNDER A PLAN
$ '000
Note 17. Statement of Developer Contributions
for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Notes to the Financial Statements
Canterbury City Council
Future income
2,283
-
-
2,200
Asset
22 2,261 -
2,200 -
income
Future
Restricted
Held as
19,415
758 9,987 6,154 1,632 381 399
104
Asset
Restricted
Held as
(1,689)
(313) (1,300) (55)
(21)
outstanding
still
Exp
Projections
(17,315)
(5,600) (1,537) (515) (319)
(708) (8,586)
(50)
outstanding
still
Exp
Projections
594
1 (313) 961 (55)
Funding
(under)
Over or
4,300
554 95 (134) 80
50 3,601
54
Funding
(under)
Over or
-
-
due/(payable)
Borrowings
Internal
Cumulative
-
-
-
due/(payable)
Borrowings
Internal
Cumulative
Appendix 1 - Financials
189
Financial Statem
page 55
Financial Statements 2012
190 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 18. Contingencies & Other Assets/Liabilities Not Recognised $ '000
The following assets and liabilities do not qualify for recognition in the Balance Sheet, but their knowledge & disclosure is considered relevant to the users of Council's Financial Report.
LIABILITIES NOT RECOGNISED: 1. Guarantees (i) Defined Benefit Superannuation Contribution Plans Council participates in an employer sponsored Defined Benefit Superannuation Scheme, and makes contributions as determined by the Superannuation Scheme's Trustees. Member Councils bear responsibility of ensuring there are sufficient funds available to pay out the required benefits as they fall due. The Schemes most recent full actuarial review indicated that the Net Assets of the Scheme were not sufficient to meet the accrued benefits of the Schemes Defined Benefit member category with member Councils required to make significantly higher contributions in future years. The Local Government Superannuation Scheme however is unable to provide Council with an accurate estimate of its share of the net deficit and accordingly Council has not recorded any net liability from it's Defined Benefit Scheme obligations in accordance with AASB 119. Future contributions made to the defined benefit scheme to rectify the net deficit position will be recognised as an expense when they become payable - similar to the accounting for Defined Contributions Plans.
(ii) Statewide Limited Council is a member of Statewide Mutual, a mutual pool scheme providing liability insurance to Local Government. Membership includes the potential to share in either the net assets or liabilities of the fund depending on its past performance. Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s share of the Net Assets or Liabilities reflects Councils contributions to the pool and the result of insurance claims within each of the Fund Years. The future realisation and finalisation of claims incurred but not reported to 30/6 this year may result in future liabilities or benefits as a result of past events that Council will be required to fund or share in respectively. (iii) StateCover Limited Council is a member of StateCover Mutual Limited and holds a partly paid share in the entity. StateCover is a company providing workers compensation insurance cover to the NSW Local Government Industry and specifically Council. Council has a contingent liability to contribute further equity in the event of the erosion of the Company's capital base as a result of the company's past performance and/or claims experience or as a result of any increased prudential requirements from APRA. These future equity contributions would be required to maintain the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s minimum level of Net Assets in accordance with its Licence Requirements. (iv) Other Guarantees Council has provided no other Guarantees other than those listed above.
page 56
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 18. Contingencies & Other Assets/Liabilities Not Recognised
(continued)
$ '000
LIABILITIES NOT RECOGNISED (continued): 2. Other Liabilities (i) Third Party Claims The Council is involved from time to time in various claims incidental to the ordinary course of business including claims for damages relating to its services. Council believes that it is appropriately covered for all claims through its Insurance Coverage and does not expect any material liabilities to eventuate. (ii) S94 Plans Council levies Section 94/94A Contributions upon various development across the Council area through the required Contributions Plans. As part of these Plans, Council has received funds for which it will be required to expend the monies in accordance with those Plans. As well, these Plans indicate proposed future expenditure to be undertaken by Council, which will be funded by making levies and receipting funds in future years or where a shortfall exists by the use of Council's General Funds. These future expenses do not yet qualify as liabilities as of the Reporting Date, but represent Councils intention to spend funds in the manner and timing set out in those Plans.
(iii) Potential Land Acquisitions due to Planning Restrictions imposed by Council Council has classified a number of privately owned land parcels as Local Open Space or Bushland. As a result, where notified in writing by the various owners, Council will be required to purchase these land parcels. At reporting date, reliable estimates as to the value of any potential liability (& subsequent land asset) from such potential acquisitions has not been possible.
ASSETS NOT RECOGNISED: (i) Land Under Roads As permitted under AASB 1051, Council has elected not to bring to account Land Under Roads that it owned or controlled up to & including 30/6/08. (ii) Infringement Notices/Fines Fines & Penalty Income, the result of Council issuing Infringement Notices is followed up and collected by the Infringement Processing Bureau. Councils Revenue Recognition policy for such income is to account for it as revenue on receipt. Accordingly, at Year End, there is a potential asset due to Council representing issued but unpaid Infringement Notices. Due to the limited information available on the status, value and duration of outstanding Notices, Council is unable to determine the value of outstanding income.
page 57
191
Financial Statements 2012
192 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 19. Controlled Entities, Associated Entities & Interests in Joint Ventures Council has no interest in any Controlled Entities, Associated Entities or Joint Ventures.
Note 20. Equity - Retained Earnings and Revaluation Reserves $ '000
Notes
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
405,298 4,219
398,649 6,649
a. Retained Earnings Movements in Retained Earnings were as follows: Balance at beginning of Year (from previous years audited accounts) plus: Net Operating Result for the Year
Balance at End of the Reporting Period
409,517
405,298
b. Reserves (i) Reserves are represented by: - Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment Revaluation Reserve Total
418,616
418,616
418,616
418,616
418,616 418,616
360,408 58,208 418,616
418,616
418,616
(ii). Reconciliation of movements in Reserves: Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment Revaluation Reserve - Opening Balance - Revaluations for the year 9(a) - Balance at End of Year TOTAL VALUE OF RESERVES (iii). Nature & Purpose of Reserves Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment Revaluation Reserve
- The Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment Revaluation Reserve is used to record increments/decrements of Non Current Asset values due to their revaluation.
c. Correction of Error/s relating to a Previous Reporting Period Council made no correction of errors during the current reporting period.
d. Voluntary Changes in Accounting Policies Council made no voluntary changes in any accounting policies during the year. page 58
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 21. Financial Result & Financial Position by Fund Income Statement by Fund
$ '000
Actual 2012
Actual 2012
Actual 2012
Actual 2012
Council utilises only a General Fund for its operations.
Note 22. "Held for Sale" Non Current Assets & Disposal Groups 2012
2012
2011
2011
Council did not classify any Non Current Assets or Disposal Groups as "Held for Sale".
Note 23. Events occurring after Balance Sheet Date Events that occur after the reporting date of 30 June 2012, up to and including the date when the financial statements are "authorised for issue" have been taken into account in preparing these statements. Council has adopted the date of receipt of the Auditors' Report as the appropriate "authorised for issue" date relating to these General Purpose Financial Statements. Accordingly, the "authorised for issue" date is 27/09/12.
Events that occur after the Reporting Date represent one of two types: (i) Events that have provided evidence of conditions that existed at the Reporting Date These financial statements (and the figures therein) incorporate all "adjusting events" that provided evidence of conditions that existed at 30 June 2012. (ii) Events that have provided evidence of conditions that arose after the Reporting Date These financial statements (& figures therein) do not incorporate any "non adjusting events" that have occurred after 30 June 2012 and which are only indicative of conditions that arose after 30 June 2012. Council is unaware of any material or significant "non adjusting events" that should be disclosed.
page 59
193
Financial Statements 2012
194 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 24. Discontinued Operations Actual 2012
Actual 2011
Actual 2012 Carrying Amount
Actual 2011 Carrying Amount
Opening Values: Gross Book Value (1/7/11) Accumulated Amortisation (1/7/11) Net Book Value - Opening Balance
62 (2) 60
-
Movements for the year - Purchases
25
62
- Amortisation charges
(44)
(2)
Closing Values: Gross Book Value (30/6/12) Accumulated Amortisation (30/6/12)
87 (45)
62 (2)
TOTAL INTANGIBLE ASSETS - NET BOOK VALUE 1
42
60
42 42
60 60
$ '000
Council has not classified any of its Operations as "Discontinued".
Note 25. Intangible Assets
Intangible Assets are as follows;
1.
The Net Book Value of Intangible Assets represent:
- Software
Note 26. Reinstatement, Rehabilitation & Restoration Liabilities Council has no outstanding obligations to make, restore, rehabilitate or reinstate any of its assets/operations.
page 60
Financial Statements 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 27. Council Information & Contact Details Principal Place of Business: 137 Beamish Street Campsie NSW 2194 Contact Details Mailing Address: PO Box 77 Campsie NSW 2194
Opening Hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday
Telephone: Facsimile:
Internet: Email:
02 9789 9300 02 9789 1542
www.canterbury.nsw.gov.au council@canterbury.nsw.gov.au
Officers GENERAL MANAGER Jim Montague
Elected Members MAYOR Brian Robson
RESPONSIBLE ACCOUNTING OFFICER Glenn McMahon
COUNCILLORS Mark Adler Fadwa Kebbe Ken Nam Linda Eisler Bill Kritharas Michael Hawatt Karl (Khodr) Saleh
PUBLIC OFFICER Andy Sammut AUDITORS Hills Rogers Spencer Steer Assurance Partners Level 5, 1 Chiffley Square Sydney NSW 2000 Australia
Other Information ABN: 55 150 306 339
page 61
195
196 Annual Report 2011-12
Auditorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter Report
page 62
Appendix 1 - Financials
page 63
197
198 Annual Report 2011-12
page 64
Appendix 1 - Financials
199
page 65
200 Annual Report 2011-12
page 66
Appendix 1 - Financials
page 67
201
202 Annual Report 2011-12
page 68
Appendix 1 - Financials
page 69
203
204 Annual Report 2011-12
page 70
4. Auditor's Report
205.
11 Appendix 1 - Financials
Special Purpose Financial Statements Background (i)
These Special Purpose Financial Statements have been prepared for the use by both Council and the Division of Local Government in fulfilling their requirements under National Competition Policy.
(ii)
The principle of competitive neutrality is based on the concept of a "level playing field" between persons/entities competing in a market place, particularly between private and public sector competitors. Essentially, the principle is that government businesses, whether Commonwealth, State or Local, should operate without net competitive advantages over other businesses as a result of their public ownership.
(iii)
For Council, the principle of competitive neutrality & public reporting applies only to declared business activities. These include (a) those activities classified by the Australian Bureau of Statistics as business activities being water supply, sewerage services, abattoirs, gas production and reticulation and (b) those activities with a turnover of over $2 million that Council has formally declared as a Business Activity (defined as Category 1 activities).
(iv)
In preparing these financial statements for Council's self classified Category 1 businesses and ABS defined activities, councils must (a) adopt a corporatisation model and (b) apply full cost attribution including tax equivalent regime payments & debt guarantee fees (where the business benefits from councils borrowing position by comparison with commercial rates).
page 1
205
206 Annual Report 2011-12
Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Certificate [S.413(2)(C)]
page 2
SPFS 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Income Statement of Council's Other Business Activities for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Early Learning Centres
Aquatic Centres
Category 2
Category 2
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
1,880 1,458 3,338
1,972 1,042 1 3,015
2,413 150 2,563
2,304 155 2,459
2,690 443 118 147 3,398 (60)
2,538
2,508
3,187 (172)
2,696 901 794 147 4,538 (1,975)
3,821 (1,362)
(60)
(172)
(1,975)
(1,362)
Surplus (deficit) from ALL Operations before tax less: Corporate Taxation Equivalent (30%) [based on result before capital]
(60) -
(172) -
(1,975) -
(1,362) -
SURPLUS (DEFICIT) AFTER TAX
(60)
(172)
(1,975)
(1,362)
2,532 -
2,581 -
2,721 -
2,797 -
147 -
138 -
147 -
137 -
(205)
(15)
1,034
1,149
-
-
$ '000 Income from continuing operations Access charges User charges Fees Interest Grants and contributions provided for non capital purposes Profit from the sale of assets Other income Total income from continuing operations Expenses from continuing operations Employee benefits and on-costs Borrowing costs Materials and contracts Depreciation and impairment Loss on sale of assets Calculated taxation equivalents Debt guarantee fee (if applicable) Other expenses Total expenses from continuing operations Surplus (deficit) from Continuing Operations before capital amounts
Grants and contributions provided for capital purposes Surplus (deficit) from Continuing Operations after capital amounts
Surplus (deficit) from discontinued operations
plus Opening Retained Profits plus/less: Prior Period Adjustments plus Adjustments for amounts unpaid: - Taxation equivalent payments - Debt guarantee fees - Corporate taxation equivalent add: - Subsidy Paid/Contribution To Operations less: - TER dividend paid - Dividend paid Closing Retained Profits Return on Capital % Subsidy from Council
-
2,414
-2.5% 133
462 49 138
-
2,532
-6.8% 330
1,100 76 137
1,927
2,721
-102.5% 2,033
-50.1% 1,696 page 3
207
SPFS 2012
208 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Income Statement of Council's Other Business Activities for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Tennis Courts 0
Category 2
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
25 25
51 51
37 42 51 2 132 (107)
38 40 53 2 133 (82)
(107)
(82)
Surplus (deficit) from ALL Operations before tax less: Corporate Taxation Equivalent (30%) [based on result before capital]
(107) -
(82) -
SURPLUS (DEFICIT) AFTER TAX
(107)
(82)
618 -
647 -
2 -
2 -
54
51
-
-
$ '000 Income from continuing operations Access charges User charges Fees Interest Grants and contributions provided for non capital purposes Profit from the sale of assets Other income Total income from continuing operations Expenses from continuing operations Employee benefits and on-costs Borrowing costs Materials and contracts Depreciation and impairment Loss on sale of assets Calculated taxation equivalents Debt guarantee fee (if applicable) Other expenses Total expenses from continuing operations Surplus (deficit) from Continuing Operations before capital amounts
Grants and contributions provided for capital purposes Surplus (deficit) from Continuing Operations after capital amounts
Surplus (deficit) from discontinued operations
plus Opening Retained Profits plus/less: Prior Period Adjustments plus Adjustments for amounts unpaid: - Taxation equivalent payments - Debt guarantee fees - Corporate taxation equivalent add: - Subsidy Paid/Contribution To Operations less: - TER dividend paid - Dividend paid Closing Retained Profits Return on Capital % Subsidy from Council
567
618
-18.9% 124
-13.3% 96 page 4
SPFS 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Balance Sheet of Council's Other Business Activities as at 30 June 2012
$ '000 ASSETS Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents Investments Receivables Inventories Other Non-current assets classified as held for sale Total Current Assets Non-Current Assets Investments Receivables Inventories Infrastructure, property, plant and equipment Investments accounted for using equity method Investment property Other Total Non-Current Assets TOTAL ASSETS LIABILITIES Current Liabilities Bank Overdraft Payables Interest bearing liabilities Provisions Total Current Liabilities Non-Current Liabilities Payables Interest bearing liabilities Provisions Other Liabilities Total Non-Current Liabilities TOTAL LIABILITIES
NET ASSETS
EQUITY Retained earnings Revaluation reserves Council equity interest Minority equity interest
TOTAL EQUITY
Early Learning Centres
Aquatic Centres
Category 2
Category 2
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
577 577
524 524
268 268
234 234
2,414 2,414 2,991
2,532 2,532 3,056
1,927 1,927 2,195
2,721 2,721 2,955
9 9
-
1 1
-
568 568 577
-
267 267 268
234
-
524 524 524
-
234 234
2,414
2,532
1,927
2,721
2,414 2,414 -
2,532 2,532 -
1,927 1,927 -
2,721 2,721 -
2,414
2,532
1,927
2,721 page 5
209
SPFS 2012
210 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Balance Sheet of Council's Other Business Activities as at 30 June 2012
Tennis Courts Category 2
Actual 2012
Actual 2011
-
-
567 567 567
618 618 618
LIABILITIES Current Liabilities Bank Overdraft Payables Interest bearing liabilities Provisions Total Current Liabilities
-
-
Non-Current Liabilities Payables Interest bearing liabilities Provisions Other Liabilities Total Non-Current Liabilities TOTAL LIABILITIES
-
-
$ '000 ASSETS Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents Investments Receivables Inventories Other Non-current assets classified as held for sale Total Current Assets Non-Current Assets Investments Receivables Inventories Infrastructure, property, plant and equipment Investments accounted for using equity method Investment property Other Total Non-Current Assets TOTAL ASSETS
NET ASSETS
EQUITY Retained earnings Revaluation reserves Council equity interest Minority equity interest
TOTAL EQUITY
567
618
567 567 -
618 618 -
567
618 page 6
SPFS 2012 SPFS 2012
_
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Canterbury City Council Notes to theFinancial Special Purpose Financial Statements Purpose Statements Special for the financial year ended 30 June 2012 for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Significant Accounting Policies
Contents of the Notes accompanying the Financial Statements Note Details These financial statements are a Special Purpose Financial Statements (SPFS) prepared for use by 1Council Summary Significant Accounting Policies and theof Division of Local Government.
Page These disclosures are reflected in Council’s pricing and/or financial reporting systems and include 8 taxation equivalents; council subsidies; return on investments (rate of return); and dividends paid. n/a 2For the Best Practice disclosure requirements Water SupplyofBusiness purposes these statements, theManagement Council’s business activities (reported herein) are not reporting Declared Business Activities n/a 3entities. requirements Sewerage Business Best Practice Management disclosure These special purpose financial statements, unless otherwise stated, have been prepared in accordance with; applicable Australian Accounting Standards, other authoritative pronouncements Australian Accounting Standards Board,
of
the
Australian Accounting Interpretations, the Local Government Act and Regulation, and the Local Government Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting. The statements are also prepared on an accruals basis. They are based on historic costs and do not take into account changing money values nor current values of non-current assets (except where specifically stated).
In accordance with Pricing & Costing for Council Businesses - A Guide to Competitive Neutrality, Council has declared that the following are to be considered as business activities: Category 1 (where gross operating turnover is over $2 million)
None Category 2 (where gross operating turnover is less than $2 million)
a. Early Learning Centres b. Aquatic Centres c. Tennis Courts Monetary Amounts
Certain taxes and other costs (appropriately described) have been imputed for the purposes of the National Competition Policy.
Amounts shown in the financial statements are in Australian currency and rounded to the nearest one thousand dollars.
National Competition Policy
(i) Taxation Equivalent Charges
Council has adopted the principle of ‘competitive neutrality’ to its business activities as part of the national competition policy which is being applied throughout Australia at all levels of government. The framework for its application is set out in the June 1996 Government Policy statement on the “Application of National Competition Policy to Local Government”. The “Pricing & Costing for Council Businesses A Guide to Competitive Neutrality” issued by the Division of Local Government in July 1997 has also been adopted. The pricing & costing guidelines outline the process for identifying and allocating costs to activities and provide a standard of disclosure requirements.
Council is liable to pay various taxes and financial duties in undertaking its business activities. Where this is the case, they are disclosed in these statements as a cost of operations just like all other costs. However, where Council is exempt from paying taxes which are generally paid by private sector businesses (such as income tax), equivalent tax payments have been applied to all Council nominated business activities and are reflected in these financial statements. For the purposes of disclosing comparative information relevant to the private sector equivalent, the following taxation equivalents have been applied
page 7
page 8
211
SPFS 2012
_
212 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Special Purpose Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Significant Accounting Policies (continued) to all council nominated business activities (this does not include council’s non-business activities): Notional Rate Applied % Corporate Income Tax Rate – 30% Land Tax – The first $396,000 of combined land values attracts 0%. From $396,001 to $2,421,000 the rate is 1.6% + $100. For the remaining combined land value that exceeds $2,421,000, a premium marginal rate of 2.0% applies. Payroll Tax – 5.45% on the value of taxable salaries and wages in excess of $678,000. Income Tax An income tax equivalent has been applied on the profits of the business. Whilst income tax is not a specific cost for the purpose of pricing a good or service, it needs to be taken into account of in terms of assessing the rate of return required on capital invested. Accordingly, the return on capital invested is set at a pre-tax level (gain/(loss) from ordinary activities before capital amounts) as would be applied by a private sector competitor – that is, it should include a provision equivalent to the corporate income tax rate, currently 30%. Income Tax is only applied where a positive gain/(loss) from ordinary activities before capital amounts has been achieved. Since this taxation equivalent is notional - that is, it is payable to the “Council” as the owner of business operations, it represents an internal payment and has no effect on the operations of the council. Accordingly, there is no need for disclosure of internal charges in Council's GPFS. The rate applied of 30% is the equivalent company tax rate prevalent as at balance date. No adjustments have been made for variations that have occurred during the year.
Local Government Rates & Charges A calculation of the equivalent rates and charges payable on all Category 1 businesses has been applied to all land assets owned or exclusively used by the business activity. Loan & Debt Guarantee Fees The debt guarantee fee is designed to ensure that council business activities face “true” commercial borrowing costs in line with private sector competitors. In order to calculate a debt guarantee fee, council has determined what the differential borrowing rate would have been between the commercial rate and the council’s borrowing rate for its business activities.
(ii) Subsidies Government policy requires that subsidies provided to customers and the funding of those subsidies must be explicitly disclosed. Subsidies occur where council provides services on a less than cost recovery basis. This option is exercised on a range of services in order for council to meet its community service obligations. Accordingly, Subsidies disclosed (in relation to National Competition Policy) represents the difference between revenue generated from ‘rate of return’ pricing and revenue generated from prices set by the council in any given financial year. The overall effect of subsidies is contained within the Income Statement of Business Activities.
(iii) Return on Investments (Rate of Return) The Policy statement requires that councils with Category 1 businesses “would be expected to generate a return on capital funds employed that is comparable to rates of return for private businesses operating in a similar field”. Such funds are subsequently available for meeting commitments or financing future investment strategies. page 9
SPFS 2012
_
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Notes to the Special Purpose Financial Statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Note 1. Significant Accounting Policies (continued) The Rate of Return on Capital is calculated as follows: Operating Result before Capital Income + Interest Expense Written Down Value of I,PP&E as at 30 June
As a minimum, business activities should generate a return equal to the Commonwealth 10 year bond rate which is 3.03% at 30/6/12. The actual rate of return achieved by each business activity is disclosed at the foot of each respective Income Statement.
(iv) Dividends Council is not required to pay dividends to either itself as owner of a range of businesses or to any external entities.
page 10
213
214 Annual Report 2011-12
Auditorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Report
page 11
Appendix 1 - Financials
page 12
215
- Special Schedule No. 8
Financial Projections
7
216. Special Schedules 1
Special Purpose Schedules are not audited. Background (i)
These Special Schedules have been designed to meet the requirements of special purpose users such as;
(ii)
the NSW Grants Commission the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), the NSW Office of Water, the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, and the Division of Local Government (DLG).
The financial data is collected for various uses including;
the allocation of Financial Assistance Grants, the incorporation of Local Government financial figures in national statistics, the monitoring of loan approvals, the allocation of borrowing rights, and the monitoring of the financial activities of specific services.
page 1
Special Schedules 2012
Appendix 1 - Financials
Canterbury City Council Special Schedule No. 1 - Net Cost of Services for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
$'000 Function or Activity
Expenses from. Continuing. Operations.
Income from continuing operations Non Capital.
Capital.
Net Cost. of Services.
5,010
87
-
(4,923)
42,409
4,525
2,695
(35,189)
Public Order and Safety Fire Service Levy, Fire Protection, Emergency Services Beach Control Enforcement of Local Govt. Regulations Animal Control Other Total Public Order & Safety
98 1,526 188 1,812
1,393 1,393
-
(98) 1,393 (1,526) (188) (419)
Health
1,310
571
-
(739)
Environment Noxious Plants and Insect/Vermin Control Other Environmental Protection Solid Waste Management Street Cleaning Drainage Stormwater Management Total Environment
721 14,442 2,358 17,521
10 16,357 16,367
871 871
160 1,915 (2,358) (283)
Community Services and Education Administration & Education Social Protection (Welfare) Aged Persons and Disabled Children's Services Total Community Services & Education
949 346 389 5,969 7,653
370 136 59 6,189 6,754
-
(579) (210) (330) 220 (899)
192 3,781 3,973
1,631 1,631
2,360 2,360
(192) (2,150) 2,360 18
Water Supplies
-
-
-
-
Sewerage Services
-
-
-
-
Governance Administration
Housing and Community Amenities Public Cemeteries Public Conveniences Street Lighting Town Planning Other Community Amenities Total Housing and Community Amenities
page 2
217
Special Schedules 2012
218 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Special Schedule No. 1 - Net Cost of Services (continued) for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
$'000 Expenses from. Continuing. Operations.
Function or Activity
Recreation and Culture Public Libraries Museums Art Galleries Community Centres and Halls Performing Arts Venues Other Performing Arts Other Cultural Services Sporting Grounds and Venues Swimming Pools Parks & Gardens (Lakes) Other Sport and Recreation Total Recreation and Culture
Income from continuing operations Non Capital.
Capital.
Net Cost. of Services.
(3,270) (287) (58) (1,999) (748) (1,745) (8,107)
3,895 290 58 2,079 3,311 1,881 11,514
510 3 80 2,563 136 3,292
115 115
Fuel & Energy
-
-
-
-
Agriculture
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2,263 491 333 3,087
481 179 660
-
(1,782) (312) (333) (2,427)
748 748
119 119
-
(629) (629)
95,037
35,399
6,041
(53,597)
Mining, Manufacturing and Construction
Building Control Other Mining, Manufacturing & Construction Total Mining, Manufacturing and Const. Transport and Communication Urban Roads (UR) - Local Urban Roads - Regional Other Transport & Communication Total Transport and Communication Economic Affairs Camping Areas & Caravan Parks Other Economic Affairs Total Economic Affairs
Totals â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Functions General Purpose Revenues
(2)
Share of interests - joint ventures & associates using the equity method
NET OPERATING RESULT
(1)
57,816
57,816
-
-
-
95,037
93,215
6,041
4,219
(1) As reported in the Income Statement | (2) Includes: Rates & Annual Charges (incl. Ex Gratia, excl. Water & Sewer), Non Capital General Purpose Grants & Interest on Investments (excl. Ext. Restricted Assets)
page 3
741
-
741 741
Current
5,208
-
5,178 30 5,208
Non Current
5,949
-
5,919 30 5,949
Total
at beginning of the year
Principal outstanding
3,000
-
3,000 3,000
New Loans raised during the year
769
-
769 769
From Revenue
-
-
-
Sinking Funds
Debt redemption during the year
Notes: Excludes (i) Internal Loans & (ii) Principal Inflows/Outflows relating to Loan Re-Financing. This Schedule is prepared using the face value of debt obligations, rather than fair value (which are reported in the GPFS).
Total Debt
Other Long Term Debt Ratepayers Advances Government Advances Finance Leases Deferred Payments Total Long Term Debt
Loans (by Source) Commonwealth Government Treasury Corporation Other State Government Public Subscription Financial Institutions Other Total Loans
Classification of Debt
$'000
for the financial year ended 30 June 2012
Special Schedule No. 2(a) - Statement of Long Term Debt (all purpose)
Canterbury City Council
-
-
-
408
-
408 408
Transfers Interest to Sinking applicable Funds for Year
746
-
746 746
Current
7,434
-
7,404 30 7,434
Non Current
8,180
-
8,150 30 8,180
Total
at the end of the year
Principal outstanding
Appendix 1 - Financials
Special Schedules 2012
page 4
219
Other - Specialised Other - Non Specialised sub total
Buildings
Public Roads
Sealed Roads Bridges Footpaths Kerb and Gutter Road Furniture Other - Traffic Device sub total
Other Structures Assets not included in Buildings sub total
Asset Category
ASSET CLASS
$'000
as at 30 June 2012
per Note 1
Dep'n. Rate (%)
2,376 273 418 1,074 114 215 4,470
442 442
703 1,188 1,891
per Note 4
Dep'n Expense ($)
Special Schedule No. 7 - Condition of Public Works
Canterbury City Council
-
-
-
350,236 40,170 61,626 158,260 16,778 31,620 658,690
9,285 9,285
60,648 46,492 107,140
81,840 9,387 14,401 36,982 3,921 7,389 153,920
3,053 3,053
35,878 23,549 59,427
268,396 30,783 47,225 121,278 12,857 24,231 504,770
6,232 6,232
24,770 22,943 47,713
3 3 3 3 3 3
3
3 3
Carrying Amount Asset (WDV) Condition#.
<<<<<<<<<<<< per Note 9 >>>>>>>>>>>>
Cost
Accum. Depreciation Amortisation & Valuation Impairment Required(2) Annual
Current(3) Annual
27,870 5,858 6,623 9,272 274 1,237 51,134
4,001 4,001
6,567 4,925 11,492
12,138 330 1,269 1,992 450 1,111 17,290
205 205
839 799 1,638
862 2 547 86 4 247 1,748
111 111
825 617 1,442
condition / Maintenance Maintenance standard (1)
Estimated cost to bring up to a satisfactory
220 Annual Report 2011-12 Special Schedules 2012
page 5
Accum. Depreciation Amortisation & Valuation Impairment
591,638
32,923 32,923
81,029
14,402 14,402
Excellent - No work required (normal maintenance)
Good - Only minor maintenance work required
Average - Maintenance work required
Poor - Renewal required
Very Poor - Urgent renewal/upgrading required
1
2
3
4
5
Asset Condition "Key" - as per the DLG Integrated Planning & Reporting Manual
260,141
43,741 43,741
#
851,779
76,664 76,664
Required(2) Annual
Current(3) Annual
19,932
799 799
3,622
321 321
condition / Maintenance Maintenance standard (1)
Estimated cost to bring up to a satisfactory
Satisfactory refers to estimated cost to bring the asset to a satisfactory condition as deemed by Council. It does not include any planned enhancements to the existing asset. Required Annual Maintenance is what should be spent to maintain assets in a satisfactory standard. Current Annual Maintenance is what has been spent in the current year to maintain assets.
-
-
3
Carrying Amount Asset (WDV) Condition#.
<<<<<<<<<<<< per Note 9 >>>>>>>>>>>>
Cost
(continued)
(1). (2). (3).
Notes:
7,267
per Note 4
TOTAL - ALL ASSETS
per Note 1
Dep'n Expense ($)
464 464
Asset Category
Dep'n. Rate (%)
Drainage Works Stormwater Converters sub total
ASSET CLASS
$'000
as at 30 June 2012
Special Schedule No. 7 - Condition of Public Works
Canterbury City Council
Appendix 1 - Financials Special Schedules 2012
page 6
221
Special Schedules 2012
222 Annual Report 2011-12
Canterbury City Council Special Schedule No. 8 - Financial Projections as at 30 June 2012
(1)
Forecast 12/13
Forecast 13/14
Forecast(3)
Forecast(3)
14/15
15/16
$'000
Actual 11/12
(i) OPERATING BUDGET Income from continuing operations Expenses from continuing operations
99,256 95,037
96,755 90,596
100,485 94,873
103,377 98,438
106,348 102,192
4,219
6,159
5,612
4,939
4,156
5,754 9,088 14,842
6,102 7,175 13,277
6,254 7,355 13,609
6,410 7,539 13,949
6,571 7,727 14,298
1,514 3,968 9,360 14,842
293 388 2,786 3,671 6,139 13,277
1,581 398 2,255 3,763 5,612 13,609
2,434 408 2,311 3,857 4,939 13,949
3,401 418 2,369 3,954 4,156 14,298
Operating Result from Continuing Operations
(ii) CAPITAL BUDGET New Capital Works (2) Replacement/Refurbishment of Existing Assets Total Capital Budget
Funded by: – Loans – Asset sales – Reserves – Grants/Contributions – Recurrent revenue – Other
Notes: (1) From 11/12 Income Statement. (2) New Capital Works are major non-recurrent projects, eg new Leisure Centre, new Library, new Swimming pool etc. (3) If Council has only adopted 3 years of projections then only show 3 years. (4) Financial Projections should be in accordance with Council's Integrated Planning & Reporting framework.
page 7
www.canterbury.nsw.gov.au Canterbury City Council 137 Beamish St Campsie NSW 2194